ATLANTA — Travelers who were stuck for days at airports like Hartsfield-Jackson are demanding answers. Compensation seems to be one of the biggest topics on most passengers’ minds.
Since the start of the agony at the airport, flyers have spent much of their time waiting: waiting at baggage claim, waiting in line, and waiting for answers.
Kathy Bedell is the Senior Vice President of Atlanta-based BCD Travel. She said many of those answers will have to come from your chosen airline.
“They will, probably, also get an alternate email from Delta giving them other options,” Bedell said. “And then, if those other options don’t work, then they should reach out to their travel management company and/or Delta Air Lines direct, but keep in mind that the hold times are going to be pretty long.”
She said patience will be key.
“I’m sure that doesn’t make people that have been stranded for three days feel any better, but I’m very confident that Delta, being the airline that they are, the leader in our airline industry, will do it–will take all the necessary steps to make this right,” Bedell said.
RELATED: When will Delta be back to normal? Plus, how you can navigate the ongoing flight disruptions
Here are some of the steps the airline has taken so far. If your flight was canceled or delayed more than two hours, you can request a refund online here. SkyMiles are also an option.
Plus, for the same eligibility requirements, travelers can be reimbursed for hotel, meals, or ground transportation, but it has to be Delta’s fault.
Bedell said if you need to leave urgently, look into traveling by bus or train.
“If it’s under eight hours, I would definitely rent a car and drive,” Bedell said. “There’s certainly other carriers that they could look at.”
However, if you take another carrier, Delta Air Lines will not reimburse your flight. It also won’t compensate you for lost wages or destination activities.
Also, there is a travel waiver for anyone who booked from July 19 to July 23. It gives you a one-time change to your itinerary.
If you do so, here’s what Bedell suggests.
“Before they even leave their home, they should reconfirm their flight through the Delta app or whatever airline they’re traveling on,” Bedell said.
Bedell has tips for how to avoid the issues at baggage claim.
“Do not check a bag,” Bedell said. “I am a veteran in this industry for 40 plus years. I never check bags. I know that’s not always possible.”
Bedell said, for now, the only other thing passengers can do is hold on.
“Be patient and kind,” Bedell said. “People are really doing their best to try to get us through this hump. And it’ll all work out.”
Bedell said she suggests taking your complaints to the airline, rather than the Department of Transportation.
If you don’t need to leave urgently, just hang on.
“Wait it out, because I feel fairly confident that things are going to settle down,” Bedell said.
There is a 24-hour helpline if you need assistance with travel. For help, just call: 800-221-1212.