How to Handle Winter Storm-Related Travel Disruptions

One of the most important steps travelers can take is to familiarize themselves with the latest Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. These new rules, which came into effect on October 28, 2024, require airlines to issue automatic refunds for flights that are canceled or significantly changed without the need for customers to request them. Dreamstime/TNS

By Laurie Baratti From TravelPulse

As the powerful Winter Storm Blair swept across the United States, travelers found themselves facing widespread flight delays and cancellations. With thousands of flights affected, passengers were left scrambling to navigate the chaos. While there is little that can be done to prevent such weather-related disruptions, the experts at InsureMyTrip have provided some essential advice to help mitigate travelers’ stress and inconvenience during this challenging time.

Know Your Rights

One of the most important steps travelers can take is to familiarize themselves with the latest Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. These new rules, which came into effect on October 28, 2024, require airlines to issue automatic refunds for flights that are canceled or significantly changed without the need for customers to request them.

One of SkyRefund’s airline compensation experts, Ivaylo Danailov, explained, “A significant change is defined as a delay exceeding three hours for domestic flights or six hours for international flights, changes to departure or arrival airports, increased connections, downgrades in service class, or flights with limited accessibility. Refunds must be processed within seven business days for credit card purchases and 20 days for other forms of payment.”

He added, “For domestic flights, U.S. airlines are not legally required to compensate passengers for delays. Each airline has its own policies regarding amenities or compensation during delays, which may include meal vouchers or accommodation, especially if the delay is within the airline’s control. It’s advisable to inquire directly with airline staff about available assistance during such events.”

However, it is essential to note that these regulations do not extend to cover other prepaid expenses, medical emergencies, or trip interruptions resulting from weather-related cancellations. Travelers are encouraged to thoroughly review their rights and stay informed about airline policies.

Remain Proactive

InsureMyTrip advises passengers to monitor their flight status diligently and download their airline’s app. This way, you can easily check to see if your flight is on time before departing for the airport, saving yourself valuable time if disruptions appear early on. By staying constantly updated, you can avoid unnecessary time spent at the airport and adjust your plans accordingly. Signing up for text updates can also keep you apprised of gate changes and any potential delays as they occur.

Stephen Scott of Travel Hub 365 also recommends taking proactive steps ahead of the storm if you have advance notice of its impending arrival. “Take advantage of alternate flight options offered by the airlines a day or two before the weather affects your flight. The airlines prep for major weather disruptions days in advance and offer travel waivers up to a day or two prior which can offer you the ability to wait out the storm at home, somewhere in comfort, or get out a day earlier so that you don’t miss something important. Waiting until you get to the airport to see a flight cancellation is not ideal.”

Build in Buffer Time

Arriving early at the airport can significantly reduce stress by allowing you ample time to make your way through security smoothly and navigate any unexpected disruptions. Additionally, booking longer layovers can minimize the risk of missing your connecting flights due to potential delays.

Purchase Travel Insurance

When it comes to travel insurance, timing is everything. InsureMyTrip experts emphasized that policies need to be purchased before a storm is named or recognized. They pointed out that travel insurance is designed to cover unforeseen issues, so buying it after a storm becomes known won’t offer coverage for related disruptions. Purchasing a policy well ahead of time helps ensure that you’ll be protected from potential cancellations or delays.

However, you’ll need to be sure you’re purchasing coverage that extends to weather-related events, because purchasing a policy does not necessarily guarantee that it will cover every scenario. Carefully reading through your travel insurance plan’s insurance terms and conditions is crucial, and you can always reach out to the company directly if you need clarification.

Copyright 2025 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Visit at travelpulse.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Dear Readers: We would love to hear from you. What topics would you like to read about? Please send your feedback and tips to [email protected].