Essential Information for Travelers Regarding Tropical Storm Debby

After Hurricane Debby struck the Florida Gulf Coast on Monday morning, it led to major flight delays and cancellations, impacting the plans of thousands. Although downgraded to a tropical depression, Debby has caused considerable turmoil in the travel sector, resulting in over 3,300 delayed flights and nearly 2,000 cancellations across the U.S., according to flight tracking service FlightAware.

The bulk of the disruptions were concentrated on the East Coast and in Florida, particularly affecting major airports like Orlando, Miami, Tampa, and Charlotte. Even airports as far north as Cincinnati experienced delays. American, Southwest, and Delta airlines reported the highest number of disruptions.

On Monday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) urged travelers to stay updated on their flights through their respective airlines and to check status on the official FAA website. Michelle Couch-Friedman, founder of Consumer Rescue, noted that she was receiving complaints from numerous frustrated travelers due to the widespread disruptions, which can create a cascading effect nationwide.

“The issue leading to this frustration is that many travelers are unaware that even if you’re not traveling to or from an area impacted by the storm, the entire airline system is interconnected,” Couch-Friedman explained. “Clear skies overhead don’t guarantee your flight will be timely or unaffected by severe weather elsewhere in the country.”

Here’s what you need to know if your flight is among those impacted by Tropical Storm Debby, or if you have travel plans to the affected regions in Florida and beyond.

Steps to Take if Your Flight is Impacted by Weather Delays

First and foremost, it’s wise to check your flight status before heading to the airport, regardless of whether a hurricane is in play. You can do this through your airline’s app or website, or by using a site like FlightAware, which offers crucial updates, including whether your aircraft is on its way. This information can help you assess your travel plans during weather-related disruptions. For instance, if your aircraft hasn’t departed from its original location, your departure time is likely to be delayed further.

If your flight gets delayed or canceled due to weather conditions like Tropical Storm Debby, airlines often automatically rebook you. Alternatively, you can take charge yourself using your airline’s app. Make sure to download it and link your flight information to your account, so you can quickly manage the rebooking. Remember, many other travelers will also be seeking rebooking, so being proactive and swift is essential.

Obtain a waiver and review your travel insurance

Several major airlines, such as Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, American, and Southwest, are offering waivers due to Debby, allowing affected travelers to modify their flights without incurring penalties. Additionally, travelers can receive a refund if their flight is canceled, in accordance with new Department of Transportation regulations.

In cases of cancellations, even those related to weather, Couch-Friedman emphasized that airlines must refund passengers unless they prefer to be rebooked on another flight. Passengers are not required to accept flight credit for future travel; always request a cash refund, as cash does not expire unlike flight credits.

However, it’s important to note that for weather-related delays, airlines are not obligated to compensate passengers for hotel stays or other expenses. This is where travel insurance becomes particularly useful. Couch-Friedman advised that if you find yourself in a delay or cancellation and lack insurance, check with your credit card provider, as they may offer basic travel insurance.

Tourist Attractions Impacted by Debby

Good news for those visiting Disney World in Kissimmee: the popular theme park remained open on Monday. Universal Studios also stayed operational. Meanwhile, some cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, had to adjust their itineraries due to the storm, as reported by USA Today.

As the storm moves further across the southern U.S., travelers should brace for more closures, including a 10 p.m. curfew recently announced by the mayor of Savannah, Georgia.

Further south, the Florida Keys, including the well-known tourist spot of Key West, are experiencing mostly normal conditions. International airports remain open and functioning, with only minor delays and cancellations reported. Live web cameras in Key West displayed clear skies and calm waters on Monday. However, with hurricane season lasting until November 30, travelers may still face weather-related disruptions in the months ahead.