A coming wave of holiday passengers is the airlines first big stress test since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. But based on what we’ve recently seen with Southwest and American Airlines, it could be a rocky return to the skies.
This year, delays and cancelations may be much more a part of the mix than usual.
As of Friday, the Transportation Security Administration is screening almost as many people per day as it did before the pandemic began. But the Bureau of Labor Statistics says 34,000 fewer airline workers are on the job now.
“They’re short-staffed, as everyone is post-pandemic,” said David Slotnick, aviation writer for The Points Guy.
While many will be traveling by car for Thanksgiving, gas prices are on the rise.
Slotnick says airlines are flying with zero wiggle room, meaning one staffing shortfall, small storm or computer glitch can ripple nationwide.
“They just end up having to cancel everything,” said Slotnik.
Logan International Airport is preparing for heavy Thanksgiving travel.
We saw major cancellations with Spirit Airlines in August, Southwest in October and recently with American Airlines. Each time, passengers were left stuck.
Tight schedules, short staffing and the potential for wintry weather could mean a gathering storm at the holidays.
“It’s out of our control, and it’s horrible,” said one traveler.
If your flight is canceled, do you know when the next few flights leave? You should. Research flight schedules now. Arm yourself with information about several backup flights.
When your flight’s delayed or canceled, remember, you’re basically competing with everyone else on your flight for any remaining seats on later flights. It’s a rebooking race.
Here’s how to win: Immediately try rebooking yourself on the airline website or app. Some airlines, like Delta, even let you switch dates and airports.
But, fair warning: not everyone can use self service. For example, United told us you…