What To Know
- American Airlines has a policy of holding connecting flights for a reasonable amount of time in the event of a delay caused by the airline.
- In the event that American Airlines cancels or delays your initial flight and you miss your connecting flight, the airline will work to rebook you on the next available flight with the same destination.
- In the unlikely event that your connecting flight is full and American Airlines cannot rebook you, the airline will provide you with hotel accommodations and meals until a flight becomes available.
Navigating connecting flights can sometimes be a source of anxiety for travelers. One of the most common questions that arises is whether airlines will wait for passengers who miss their connecting flights. In this blog post, we will delve into American Airlines’ policies and procedures regarding missed connections, providing a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey with confidence.
Missed Connections Due to Airline Delays
American Airlines has a policy of holding connecting flights for a reasonable amount of time in the event of a delay caused by the airline. This means that if your initial flight is delayed and you are at risk of missing your connecting flight, American Airlines will make every effort to hold the connecting flight until you arrive.
The specific amount of time that American Airlines will wait varies depending on the circumstances and the destination of your connecting flight. However, as a general rule, you can expect the airline to wait for at least 30 minutes for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights.
Missed Connections Due to Passenger Delays
If you miss your connecting flight due to your own delay, such as arriving late to the gate, American Airlines will not wait for you. In this case, you will need to rebook your connecting flight or make alternative arrangements.
Reaccommodating Passengers on Missed Connections
In the event that American Airlines cancels or delays your initial flight and you miss your connecting flight, the airline will work to rebook you on the next available flight with the same destination. If there are no immediate flights available, American Airlines will provide you with hotel accommodations and meals until a flight becomes available.
Proactive Measures to Avoid Missed Connections
To minimize the risk of missing a connecting flight, it is important to take proactive measures:
- Check-in early: Allow ample time for check-in, security, and finding your gate.
- Monitor flight status: Keep track of your flight status using the American Airlines app or website to stay informed of any potential delays.
- Notify the airline: If you know you will be late, contact American Airlines as soon as possible to inform them and make arrangements.
- Consider a buffer: If your connection time is short, consider booking a later connecting flight to provide yourself with a cushion in case of delays.
Exceptions to the Rules
There are some exceptions to American Airlines‘ policies regarding missed connections. For example, the airline may not wait for connecting flights if:
- The connecting flight is full and there is no other available flight on the same day.
- The delay is caused by an event beyond American Airlines’ control, such as weather or security issues.
The Bottom Line: Planning for a Seamless Journey
Understanding American Airlines’ policies for missed connections is crucial for planning a smooth and stress-free travel experience. By taking proactive measures and being aware of the airline’s procedures, you can minimize the risk of missing a connecting flight and ensure a seamless journey to your destination.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q1: How long will American Airlines wait for me if my connecting flight is delayed?
A: American Airlines will typically wait for 30 minutes for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights in the event of a delay caused by the airline.
Q2: What happens if I miss my connecting flight due to my own delay?
A: If you miss your connecting flight due to your own delay, American Airlines will not wait for you and you will need to rebook your flight or make alternative arrangements.
Q3: What if my connecting flight is full and American Airlines can’t rebook me?
A: In the unlikely event that your connecting flight is full and American Airlines cannot rebook you, the airline will provide you with hotel accommodations and meals until a flight becomes available.
Q4: Can I request a later connecting flight to avoid the risk of missing my connection?
A: Yes, you can request a later connecting flight when booking your ticket or by contacting American Airlines customer service.
Q5: What should I do if I am notified that my connecting flight is delayed?
A: If you are notified that your connecting flight is delayed, contact American Airlines immediately to inquire about alternative flight options or rebooking arrangements.
