What are your rights when your flight gets delayed?

It’s one thing if your flight is late for just a couple of minutes, but do you know what to do when it lasts for a number of hours? It’s not uncommon to find yourself in such a position, but here are some vital points to take note of, should you find yourself in a long flight delay, based on the Rights of Air Passengers jointly published by the Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Transportation of the Philippines:

Know that there are two types of flight delays. These are: terminal delay and tarmac delay. The former is when you find yourself waiting further in the terminal, as boarding has been moved to a later time; while the latter is when you’re already in the aircraft and the flight has been delayed. There are different types of compensation for each delay, so it is important to take note of the circumstance you’re in.

You have the right to sufficient food and beverage in a tarmac delay of at least two hours after the estimated time of departure (ETD). This is apparent when you are already in the aircraft and deplaning is not allowed.

For terminal delays, you are free to find ways to be more comfortable while waiting. While there may be compensation packages for long flight delays, it also pays to have a game plan ready, especially if you need to stay put in the terminal. Waiting can make one fussy, but the experience may be more comfortable when you have a Metrobank World Mastercard in hand. Having this card will give you unequalled privilege and luxury, as it serves as the key to rich airport experiences and premium rewards.

Just some exclusive perks that Metrobank World Mastercard cardholders are entitled to: 1.) Mastercard Airport Experiences or the instant access to 1,000 airport lounges worldwide, as well as discounts and deals in dining, leisure, and shopping establishments in over 500 airports, all of which you can explore in an app (on iOS and Android) and 2.) Mastercard Traveler Rewards, the first program of its kind in Southeast Asia, which are mainly exclusive automatic rebates in partner establishments in Australia, France, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, Singapore, United Kingdom, and the United States. Metrobank World Mastercard helps you unlock airport privileges that every traveler will need.  

In a terminal delay of at least three hours after the ETD, whether it is caused by the carrier or not, you are already entitled to refreshments or meals. Apart from sufficient food, you also have the right to free phone calls, text or emails, and first aid, if necessary. You also have the choice to rebook or refund your ticket, as well as be endorsed to another carrier.

Should the terminal delay last for at least six hours because of the carrier, the flight may be considered cancelled. In this case, you are already entitled to the compensation given to passengers with cancelled flights. Those include: sufficient refreshments or meals, hotel accommodation that is accessible from the airport and transportation going there, free phone calls, text, or emails, first aid, if necessary, as well as your choice whether to rebook or get endorsed to another carrier with no additional charges, given that the next flight is within 30 days for the former (rebooking to a date more than 30 days from your cancelled flight may already incur a fare difference) and another carrier can accommodate such request for the latter. Getting a fare reimbursement, inclusive of taxes and surcharges, is also your right if you decide not to fly. Apart from these, if your flight has been delayed for more than six hours, you are also entitled to additional compensation at the discretion of the carrier. Should you forego rebooking or getting a refund, you still have the right to board the flight.

Long flight delays can be frustrating, but it helps to stay calm and relaxed while waiting, as well as having room for adjustments in your travel plans.