ATLANTA — The travelers who were stuck for days in airports Airlines like Hartsfield-Jackson are demanding answers. Compensation seems to be one of the top concerns for most passengers.
Since the airport agony began, travelers have spent much of their time waiting: waiting at baggage claim, queuing, and waiting for answers.
Kathy Bedell is the Atlanta-based company's senior vice president BCD Travel. She said most of these answers will have to come from the airline you choose.
“They will likely also receive another email from Delta offering other options,” Bedell said. “And if those other options don’t work, then they will need to contact their travel agent and/or Delta Air Lines directly, but keep in mind that there will be some wait times.”
She said patience would be key.
“I'm sure it doesn't make people who have been stuck for three days feel any better, but I'm very confident that Delta, as the airline that it is, the leader in our airline industry, will – will take whatever steps are necessary to address this situation,” Bedell said.
Here are some of the measures taken by the airline so far. If your flight has been cancelled or delayed by more than two hours, you can request a refund online here. SkyMiles are also an option.
Additionally, for the same eligibility requirements, travelers may be reimbursed for hotel, meals or ground transportation, but it must be Delta's fault.
Bedell said if you need to leave urgently, consider traveling by bus or train.
“If the trip is less than eight hours, I would definitely rent a car and drive,” Bedell said. “There are certainly other carriers they could consider.”
However, if you choose another airline, Delta Air Lines will not refund your flight. It will also not compensate you for lost wages or lost activities at your destination.
There is also a travel waiver for anyone who booked between July 19 and 23. This allows you to change your itinerary once.
If you do, here's what Bedell suggests.
“Before they even leave home, they have to reconfirm their flight through the Delta app or the airline they are traveling with,” Bedell said.
Bedell offers tips for avoiding problems at baggage claim.
“Don’t let your bags be checked,” Bedell said. “I’m a 40-plus-year veteran of this industry. I never check bags. I know that’s not always possible.”
Bedell said that for now, the only other thing passengers can do is hold on.
“Be patient and be kind,” Bedell said. “People are really doing their best to help us get through this. And we’re going to be okay.”
Bedell said she suggests taking your complaints to the airline rather than the Department of Transportation.
If you don't need to leave urgently, wait a while.
“Wait, because I'm pretty confident things will calm down,” Bedell said.
A 24-hour travel hotline is available if you need assistance with your travel. For assistance, simply call: 800-221-1212.
