6 Things that Can Make You Miss Your Flight (And How to Avoid Them)
By Space Coast Daily // January 3, 2022
Missing your flight can be a major headache, so knowing what common causes may lead to your missing the plane can help you plan your trip better.
For example, if you plan to be at an airport three hours before your flight’s departure time, you might want to factor in less than an hour of leeway just in case something goes wrong.
The following is a list of things that can make you miss your flight and how to avoid them:
Delayed or Canceled Flights
Airline companies are required to allow their passengers to get off the plane if their flight has been delayed for more than 90 minutes. The airline must also put you on another flight, even if it is on a different carrier if your original flight has been canceled.
You can get compensation of up to $1,200 for international flights if you were denied boarding, your flight was delayed or canceled, or your bag was mishandled.
Lack of Parking Space
Airport parking space is at a premium during the holidays, so if you realize that it takes longer than usual for your parking space to come up, you might want to opt for another day of travel.
When looking for parking space at PDX airport parking, you may experience many issues leading to you missing your flight. It is better to reserve parking space in advance.
Traffic Congestion
Being stuck in traffic congestion is incredibly frustrating when you have a flight to catch. If it means being stuck for hours, you should not see the point of going to the airport.
You can save yourself from wasting time and energy by building in some extra time as well as letting your loved ones know. Airlines recommend having two hours of leeway if airport traffic causes delays.
Incorrect Information about Your Flight
Suppose you have been given incorrect information from the ticketing agent, a gate attendant, security personnel, or a customer service rep at the airport about your flight time and date. In that case, there is a chance that you will miss your flight.
Some airlines have online tools to keep passengers up to date with any changes to their flight. You may also want to consider contacting friends or family members who are picking you up from the airport for confirmation that they are still coming.
Also, do not rely on your smartphone exclusively because there may be signal issues in the lot and inside the terminals.
Forgetting Travel Documents
It’s essential to keep your travel documents on hand and ready to go at all times (including both tickets and passports). You cannot travel without these documents, So you should ensure you check them periodically before arriving at the airport.
Make sure to plan ahead of time how long it will take you to get to the airport so you can leave with plenty of time to spare.
Long Lines at Security/Customs and Check-In Counter/Gate
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends arriving two hours before your scheduled departure, though some airports may ask you to arrive even earlier than that.
The TSA also suggests that you bring required items like medications and electronics easily accessible if there is a long line. Customs can also add an extra wait time, so you should be prepared for that as well.
It is always better to be safe than sorry. If you are not sure of how long it will take for you to get to the airport, then it is best to leave home or the office as early as possible because many things might delay you on the way.
It’s also important to remember all your travel documents before you leave. It is also important to remember your mobile and chargers and anything else you might need throughout the flight.
