Yesterday’s global IT outage is being called the largest IT outage in history. According to FlightAware.com, over 3,400 flights were cancelled to, from or within the United States and another whopping 12,900 delayed. Worldwide, there were over 5,000 canceled flights and 46,000 delayed.
Unfortunately, today is not much better. Passengers on Delta, United, Endeavor (regional for Delta) and Spirit are getting crushed again today with cancelations. Out of the big three: Delta has over 800, United 379. American has done a much better job getting their schedules back on track with just 28 cancelations so far and United has just extended their travel waiver for two more days. Here’s what to do if you’re caught up in it.
But as you can see from this video below, it’s far from smooth sailing for travelers. A friend of mine just sent me these videos from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), taken today (July 20, 2024) around 2:30pm ET.
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She was trying to make a tight connection after her flight was delayed almost an hour out of Florida. I told her to run to her next gate but as you can see, there was not a chance she could run or make it to her next flight. She didn’t and is now stuck in CLT for seven hours and she’s lucky. She got the last seat on the plane.
So if you’re traveling today here’s my advice:
- Leave plenty of time to check-in at the airport. This may mean giving yourself an EXTRA hour or two.
- If your flight is delayed, canceled or you don’t want to deal with the chaos, switch your tickets to a later date. Most airlines are offering travel waivers, which allow you to switch your ticket for free.
- Sign up for flight notifications so you know exactly when your flight is delayed or canceled so you can act quickly. Time is of the essence in today’s travel climate but especially this weekend with all the delays and cancellations.
- Download your airline’s app so you can make changes to your flight if you miss your connecting flight.
- Fly with carry-on only. You’ll have the most flexibility this way, especially if you have to change flights.
- Pack snacks, refill your water bottles post-security and pack your patience.
KEEP READING
–How to make sure the TSA Precheck checkmark is on your boarding pass
–Did you know your electronic devices should always be charged when going through security?
–10 airport security hacks every traveler needs to know
–Mom shares hilarious reason she’s not getting TSA Precheck anytime soon
–How to get a full bottle of water through airport security
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Looks like everyday at CLT, it is close to the worst airport in the country. No personal space, no space period, it’s overloaded and you can potentially walk for at least two miles if you are in E headed to B or A Terminals.