24/03/2024
Yikes! I'm seeing a bunch of posts today about delayed/canceled flights in and out of St Croix on American Airlines . Unfortunately, if the planes can't get to Miami or Charlotte and/or here, they can't fly you out. And, like many islands, we have only several flights per day. It doesn't happen often, but when it does, it can get messy.
Here are a few important travel tips that can help you navigate these delays:
βοΈβ If the flight is delayed due to weather, the airlines are not obligated to offer you vouchers for hotels or food. That's why it's always a good idea to add on the flight insurance offered when booking (more recently not available to VI residents argh) or check what kind of travel insurance may be offered with your credit cards - you will at least get reimbursed.
ποΈ If you are stuck without a voucher, contact hotels nearby (wherever you are) and ask for "Stranded Traveler Rates" - most hotels (especially larger chains) will offer deeply discounted last-minute rates. You can also ask for a list of hotels that may offer these at the boarding gate as well.
π When a delay occurs and you need to rebook - if you are an AAdvantage Member (or other airline membership) call the travel desk ASAP to start trying to rebook.
β
AAdvantage Customer Service 800-882-8880 (if you have Status - Gold, Platinum, etc call that line for faster service) - if you have a credit card with Travel Advantages that you used to purchase your tickets, you can also look for their Concierge number. That can also be helpful.
πΉπ₯ If you are stateside/International and can get a day pass (or have a First Class flight) at the Admirals Club, you'll get better service at those in-person desks too. Once in, you can relax, use their complimentary wi-fi, and get complimentary food and drinks. When there are mass delays, they fill up fast though. Typical day pass cost is $60 USD or you can use miles.
βΌοΈ Always look at your airlines' "Conditions of Carriage" Agreement which will have details of what their obligations are to you (less and less these days unfortunately) You can google that for your airline