With most airlines are dramatically reducing flights to unprofitable destinations in an attempt to stave off impending financial doom, passengers have to face some serious problems like being bumped off and shifted to next oversold flight. This scenario is occurring more frequently than ever in the past. Here are 10 tips for flying the crowded skies:
Overcrowded Airplane
1. Don’t carry on
If you think that there will be plenty of room overhead for your second bag, you’re probably mistaken. Full flights equalfull overhead bins. Avoid the hassle of finding a space by paying a small nominal fee for your second bag.
2. Watch out for the bump
When there are not enough seats, the airline has to offer bribes for passengers to take later flights (getting bumped). If you are in a position where you could take a later flight and you want to get compensation for future tickets, you could volunteer.
3. Score an upgrade
If the airline has seats up front, it is going to upgrade as many people as there are seats. The biggest upgrade factors include being a member of the airline’s frequent flier program, being appropriately dressed, and it never hurts to be nice to the gate agent. Throw in a little, “If you need volunteers for upgrades, I would be more than happy to give up my economy seat.” It may sound cheesy but you would be surprised how many times that works.
4. Get along
Learn to get along with other people in-flight. This will help you to travel with ease and will make your journey more pleasurable.
5. Have a plan B
If you have booked your ticket well in advance, and in case the airline you are scheduled on goes into bankruptcy or on strike, immediately book a refundable ticket on a different airline, as your options become dramatically less as your flight date approaches.
6. Miss your connection
Taking connecting flight can be a painful experience and usually involves certain risks. If you have the option of flying nonstop to your destination and it doesn’t cost you dramatically more, pay the difference.
7. Expect a few snags
Flying is far from perfect so don’t be a negative Nelly. But maybe you should be pleasantly surprised if your experience proceeds smoothly.
8. Avoid space-available travel
Stay away from space-available travel as you are in store for a long wait, if you don’t get a seat at all.
9. Bring your own entertainment
Some airlines are removing video equipment in an attempt to save on fuel weight and the charges associated with on-board movies. So, you should bring your favorite music along for your next flight.
10. Be patient with the impatient
Airline employees are being stretched even more these days. While that is not your fault, be the bigger person and empathize with them if they seem a bit snippy or cold.
