Strategies for the shutdown, and maybe even the future?

Determining strategies for the shutdown and perhaps future shutdowns.

Many Americans, including air travelers, prefer to ignore politics these days. Unfortunately, politics does not ignore us.

At the time of writing, the current government shutdown has been going on for over a month, with no end in sight. And now Department of Transportation chief Sean Duffy has ordered airlines to start reducing schedules.

Travelers United is surprised that many travelers don’t realize how hard airlines are working.

So what’s a traveler to do? Especially when “just stay home” doesn’t seem to be an option. You need strategies for shutdown.

When staying at home is not an option.

1. If you have a travel agent, book air travel through them. Now, at this time, most of the agents booking air tickets are already working at nights and weekends, so they may be reluctant to take on new clients. But it doesn’t hurt to ask if you know anyone, or get a referral. In some cases, busy agents may have coworkers who can assist. But with flight schedules so busy, an agent who has access to computers and special help desk phone numbers for all the airlines can be a lifesaver. (Some of us know tricks too.)
2. Agents may also have after-hours phone access Number. while this While the numbers may be backed up, they may still be better than trying to reach an airline or standing in an endless airport line. Now, we can’t directly change a booking made with an airline, but we may be able to book a new ticket for you if your airline can’t get you to your destination or can’t get you close enough to get a ride.
3. Another strategy is to check if the OTA has a human helpline or an after-hours number. If you have booked online through an OTA (Online Travel Agency), these numbers may be backed up, but this may be better than the alternative.
4. Many airlines have leeway for changes. This means you can go online (or call if you have access) and change your flight to add extra connection time. Perhaps you can fly to a less affected airport (San Jose instead of San Francisco, Burbank instead of LAX, etc.). However, the list of affected airports is subject to change.
5. Ask about last-minute changes. If you’re at the airport and haven’t changed your flight, but find that it is delayed, airlines are not proactive in offering options. But if space is available the discount applies on the day of departure (you must do this with carry-on or before checking luggage). Most discounts are “cabin to cabin”, which is a nice phrase for travelers. This means that if you have booked a discounted coach and there are any seats left in the coach, you can usually get them.
6. Consider purchasing a day pass for your airline’s airport lounge, if available. If you’re completely stuck, can’t reach anyone, and the lines seem hours long, these airport lounges have good reservation agents. Plus, the lines are generally shorter. These passes are also available through frequent-flyer miles.
7. please be patient and appreciateWhoever you want to blame for this mess, it is not ordinary airline or travel agency employees. A little thanks goes a long way.
8. Try flights later in the day. Many airlines are using wide-body aircraft to supplement regional aircraft. If you can find these planes, you may be late, but it’s better than being out of luck.

Also read:
A new kind of hotel guest ruins vacations
Six Amazing US Military Sites for Your Trip to Honor Our Veterans