us travel restrictions connecting flights

'No point in getting irate, the queue will still be there': International tourists arrive to long lines

A rush of international travelers headed into the United States Monday as the COVID-19 travel ban ended and people from dozens of countries begin flooding in, more than 600 days since they were barred from entry.

That's more than 86 weeks. Nearly 20 months. Enough time for grandchildren to be born , or for couples to lose track of the number of nights they fell asleep to  FaceTime calls  with their partner. Long enough to lose hope in a U.S. vacation or honeymoon after having to delay plans over and over. 

Lines began forming at the Canada and Mexico borders well before daybreak, and eager travelers boarded flights from Europe, including dueling departures from London's Heathrow airport. The U.S.-Mexico border is typically the world's busiest border crossing, with about 350 million people crossing annually.

► US drops travel ban Nov. 8: Expect bottlenecks at airports under strict entry rules

►Vacation travel: Hawaii opening for fully vaccinated international travelers, but some virus restrictions linger

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The new U.S. entry requirements require foreign air passengers to test negative for the coronavirus before boarding a plane to the country and, if they are 18 or older , show proof of full vaccination. Travelers entering the U.S. on land or by ferry for nonessential reasons must show proof of vaccination. Although federal officials had warned of the potential for long lines at entry points, there seemed to be few delays as visitors arrived by land and air.

It's a long-awaited moment for travelers from more than 30 countries. The U.S. initiated its first COVID-19-related travel ban on China in February 2020 . By the end of March, it had added travel bans on the United Kingdom , Ireland, Iran  and 26 countries in the European Schengen Area . Brazil, India and South Africa were later added to the list.

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Federal officials warned of delays: 'No staff around to help'

The smooth sailing for international travelers at JFK Airport ended Monday afternoon as arrivals ramped up after a relatively quiet morning. Passengers arriving from England on Virgin Atlantic reported lines of up to two hours to clear Customs and Border Protection processing due to the arrival of multiple flights from the United Kingdom. CBP officials had warned lines would grow from recent levels given the return of international passengers. 

Paul Richards, the 58-year-old head of safeguarding for Stoke City F.C., arrived on a Virgin Atlantic flight from London at 3:35 p.m. ET for vacation and to celebrate his son's 21st birthday. He ultimately waited about two hours before being cleared into the country.

"No point in getting irate, the queue will still be there,'' he said as he waited.

Marc Evans, a 42-year-old police officer, flew from Manchester, England, with his wife and two children to visit family for the first time in 20 months, ultimately waiting more than an hour.

"It was apparently a PR stunt to show the USA was back open but seems they weren't concerned about the queues at customs," Evans said via Twitter message, noting that they have a friend waiting to pick them up at the airport.

Evans said he was frustrated as his family has been told to wait as other families with children have been able to jump the queue. There are "no staff around to help," he said.

But the problem extends beyond a pesky wait, according to Evans. "Other people were getting connecting flights and told to stay in line," he said.

— Morgan Hines, Dawn Gilbertson, USA TODAY

'What happens here, only happens here': McCarran welcomes tourists

When the first U.K. passengers arrived in Las Vegas on Monday afternoon, McCarran International Airport made sure to give them a "fabulous Las Vegas welcome," complete with waving showgirls as the plane taxied to its gate and free T-shirts and hats promoting the city's new slogan, "What happens here, only happens here."

Karl Watson, 37, of London plans to spend his week in Nevada visiting national parks and watching a Bryan Adams performance. But his first stop? A bar.

"First of all, I'm going to get really drunk," he said. 

Watson said getting through customs and security was a long process, with the lines taking more than an hour to get through, but the Las Vegas airport was still "buzzing" with excitement when the plane landed. 

"Everyone on the plane was cheering when the plane landed," Watson said. "Usually when people clap I'm like, shut up, you don't do that when a bus parks. But this time, it was exciting. It was really cool."

"It's just such a fun place. Vegas never stops," added Ann Kirk, 64 of Birmingham, England who landed in Las Vegas with her husband Mark.

The two plan to spend five weeks in the U.S., but that's nothing compared to two- or three-month vacations they used to take before the travel ban. The couple usually spends most of their time at a home they own in Lake Havasu City in Arizona, and already have their next visit planned for February. 

"It's the warmth. The heat. The sunshine," Mark Kirk, 62, said.  

"We've really missed it," Ann Kirk added.

— Bailey Schulz, USA TODAY

Changes affect most air travelers

Arriving at Hartsfield-Jackson's Atlanta International Airport from Korea, Seongbin Woo, 26, said his travel experience for his first U.S. visit was "not that smooth," largely because he had to rush to get test results back before departing Seoul. Although Korean nationals were not banned from travel to the U.S., anyone arriving as of Monday must follow new protocols, including showing proof of vaccination.

"I heard that everyone here is not wearing masks, so it's good for me because I am tired of masks," he said. He added he is still concerned about getting sick.

Ivana Pedroso, 30, tearily reunited with her parents as they arrived from Sao Paulo, Brazil. Pedroso lives in Greensboro, North Carolina, where she's a graduate student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She had been able to visit Brazil several times, but this is the first time her parents will see the house she bought.

"It's great. Exciting. I have been waiting for this moment for two years because she doesn't know my house," Pedroso said. "They don't know where I live. So I've been waiting for this moment for two years."

Pedroso said her parents will stay for her graduation in December, on a trip they've been rescheduling for two frustrating years. Her parents said the flights and border control checks went smoothly, and they were confident they would be safe.

"She was a little bit nervous, but since they followed the protocols and all the companies, Delta Airlines and the airport followed the protocols with COVID, everything was OK," Pedroso said of her mom. "Sanitizers and masks all the time. They're good."

Waiting for "my guy," Deb Halleck, 61, wore a Manchester United jersey waiting for Stephen Donnelly to arrive in Atlanta from England via Amsterdam. Wearing a similar jersey, Donnelly strode through the terminal and swept her into a hug that seemed to make time stop. The two had been friends for years but this summer realized they wanted more.

"We've just been friends and recently, more than that, so just excited," Halleck said moments before he arrived. "I can't wait."

Since July, they've talked on the phone every day and FaceTimed. Every week they make dinner together, long distance, and share a meal. Donnelly also buys her flowers and takes a picture and sends them to her weekly. Donnelly, 62, said the mood was apprehensive on the plane due to the new rules, but was happy to finally be in the U.S. with Halleck.

What are their plans now? "She's in charge. I just go with the flow," Donnelly said.

By late afternoon the arrivals terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport began filling with loved ones awaiting passengers on a string of flights from cities like Amsterdam, Frankfurt and London, along with other places not previously banned.

All eyes were either staring down the corridor at the sliding doors coming from customs or glued to their phones. Locals eagerly checked to see how much longer it would take for their family, friends and significant others to make it through customs.

One woman remained dedicated to holding up a sign that said  #HappyMama while another family, whose kids had been holding up "Welcome Home" signs set them down, sitting in the floor to wait. They had waited this long. What's a little longer?

— Eve Chen, USA TODAY

Romance reignited and 'already have Disneyland booked'

At LAX, the happy emotions ran the gamut — hugs and kisses, laughter and tears — when Damia Suuck, 20, of Claremont, California, saw her German boyfriend, Eric Reuschel, 19, for the first time in almost a year as he came off the plane from Frankfurt.

"We were waiting, waiting. We booked so many tickets," said Suuck, who was waiting at LAX with her mother, Fadia Suuck. 

Damia Suuck, who has German and American citizenship, was able to visit her boyfriend in Germany last Christmas, but Monday was the first day he could visit the U.S. They began dating about two years ago when she was living briefly in Germany. 

"We haven't seen each other in almost 12 months, so to meet again, I can't explain it. It's crazy," said Reuschel. 

Their plans for Reuschel's one-month visit?

"We already have Disneyland booked. That was No. 1," Damia Suuck said.

— Bill Keveney, USA TODAY

Scattered delays create a 'stressful' experience

Julien Yomtov of Paris said he faced several frustrating delays leaving France – first at security and then again when the plane's departure was delayed an hour. He said he's excited to get back to Las Vegas, traveling via Los Angeles, to play in the World Series of Poker, which he normally does annually with his brother.

"The experience was stressful because the employees are (not) ready to welcome so many travelers," he told USA TODAY via Whatsapp. "Hope in LAX it will be easier."

Although Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, the international terminal's arrival hall on Monday, which was almost tranquil and relatively empty through early afternoon. Many fellow passengers made connections to other cities, and those who made Atlanta their final destination described their trips as smooth and even "better than before."

— Bailey Schulz, Eve Chen, USA TODAY

Trip delayed four times

In Los Angeles, Jan Hutten tiptoed up to his sister-in-law Jeannette Gross for a surprise hug, kicking off a family reunion three years in the waiting. His wife Henny followed with a hug of her own, grasping her sister as the Huttens arrived from Amsterdam for a three-week visit. The two had tried to visit four times previously, but had to keep rescheduling due to the ongoing travel ban.

Gross and her son, Gary Loth live in Valencia, north of Los Angeles, and will be taking the Huttens for sushi and Mexican food in sunny Los Angeles — a welcome change from the rainy weather they left behind.

"Fantastic! Finally," Henny Hutten said in Dutch, her native language, when asked how it felt to get together with her sister after having to settle for Skype calls in the three years since they last saw each other.

"I'm very happy to see her," Gross said, adding they usually get together once a year. The separation "was very painful, not being able to hug her. We Skyped, but it's not the same."

Henny Hutten offered a one-word response when asked about the sibling separation: "Terrible!"

The Huttens were supposed to visit in April 2020 to celebrate Gross's retirement. That was the first COVID-related postponement. After more reservations and cancellations, Gross quickly texted her sister when the Nov. 8 opening was announced.

"I said, ‘Change your flight. We're opening up.' She did. She got right on the ball," Gross said.

Families begin to reunite: 'Everything is so exciting'

Simone Thies of Cologne, Germany, is flying in to see her fiancé, who she has seen just twice since the ban began-- once during a trip to Aruba in June, and again when he visited her in Germany in August. Before those trips, they had been separated a year. Thies stayed overnight in a Düsseldorf hotel near the airport before catching her Delta flight, headed ultimately to Lincoln, Nebraska.

"I want to avoid stress because everything is so exciting," she said.

Getting through the line at the Düsseldorf airport was quick — "5 minutes at most," she said — but she had one more stop in Paris before crossing the Atlantic.

There, she had to show her passport, proof of vaccination and results of her negative coronavirus test. Even as the first person in line, the wait took about 20 minutes because one employee was still learning which documents to check, she said.

"The line is very long, but (I'm) done for now," she said before departing.

Alan Marques said the border closure for tourists nearly ended his relationship with his boyfriend, who is a flight attendant. They've been together four years, but hadn't seen each other in four months, until Marques, 33, flew in from Sao Paulo to Atlanta on Monday. He said the separation has been "very difficult and distressing," because his boyfriend's visits to Brazil have only been for a few hours, instead of the days they are used to.

How does it feel to be properly reunited? "So good," he said.

Mexico border busy ... then quiet

After a busy few hours after midnight ET at the El Paso-Ciudad Juárez border crossing in Texas, the normally bustling border crossing fell quiet. Traffic was minimal at crossings between El Paso and Ciudad Juárez and passenger vehicles zipped up the El Paso's Bridge of the Americas freely, no line to stop them.

"I've sold hardly anything," said newspaper salesman José Fierro, whose rack was still filled with El Diario newspapers and PM tabloids at 8 a.m. He had been there on the curb since 3 a.m., he said. There was 6 a.m. traffic, then nothing. "Everyone crossed yesterday, panicked about how the lines were going to be today."

Constantino Castellanos, 68, and his wife, Lizbeth, 62, bought quesadillas at the foot of the Bridge of the Americas, a street vendor handing over a Styrofoam tray wrapped in plastic.

They could take their time. The bridge – usually a wall of slow-moving cars and trucks – was an empty ribbon of asphalt. The border had been closed to tourists or people visiting family, although a wide variety of essential workers had been permitted to cross during the closure. During  that time, Mexican nationals holding tourist cards were banned from traveling over the land border; air travel between points in the interior of both countries never ceased.

"It's been two years," said Lizbeth Castellanos. "We're going to Marshalls and Walmart."

The crossing reopened at just after midnight Eastern time. At 6 a.m. Eastern, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported no significant crossing delays at either the Mexico or Canada borders.

Susana Hernández of Juárez was crossing for the first time since the pandemic restrictions to buy clothes in El Paso for her business. She smiled and flashed her vaccine card.

"We're happy," she said. "We're home, we feel like we're back home."

Cross-border traffic of essential travelers between El Paso and Juárez reached nearly 800,000 crossings of passenger vehicles in August, according to the Border Region Modeling Project at the University of Texas at El Paso. 

"Nobody anticipated that this pandemic would last as long as it has, in terms of travel restrictions," said Hector Mancha, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of field operations in El Paso. "People have not crossed over and visited with family in going on two years... Unfortunately, the pandemic has kept us from (reopening). I think it's overdue." 

— Lauren Villagran, Martha Pskowski ,  El Paso Times  

'Welcome back world'

Times Square was relatively quiet Monday morning as the city that never sleeps prepared to welcome vaccinated international tourists back to the U.S. 

Around 8:45 a.m., the Times Square Alliance unfurled a "Welcome Back World" sign on the Red Steps in Times Square. 

The Steps, considered an iconic New York landmark for tourists, had about 190,000 people walk by them each day before the pandemic, according to the Times Square Alliance, the not-for-profit group that maintains it. At the pandemic's worst, that number dropped to 30,000, and New York businesses hope the flood of tourists will boost their finances.

TJ Witham, the vice president of communications for the Times Square Alliance, told USA TODAY the alliance chose the red steps as it is an "iconic meeting place" for people visiting the Big Apple. 

Chris Dickson, a 41-year-old bus scheduler from Newcastle, England, flew to New York City on Monday for 48 hours, using credit from a British Airways trip he'd had to cancel seven months ago.

Dickson planned to drop his bag at his Brooklyn hotel and start exploring the city he last visited more than two years ago.

"I just wanted to come to America at the first opportunity,'' he said. "I'm going to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, I'm going to go through Central Park, I'm going to do some running, some jogging in that area. I'm just going to enjoy the weather and enjoy being back in America.''

Mainda Kiwelu, 45, arrived in New York on the second British Airways flight of the day. She said this was her first trip to the U.S. in about five or six years, and was hoping to visit the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park later this week, after work meetings.

"The flight was ok," Kiwelu said. "It was just a bit nerve-wracking sort of doing all the logistics for the travel and making sure the vaccination certificate, app, everything works."

Dueling takeoffs from London to New York

A pair of simultaneous flights left London's Heathrow airport early Monday morning, taking off on parallel runways and following similar flight paths for New York's JFK International Airport. British Airways Flight 1 and Virgin Atlantic Flight 3 took off at 3:51 a.m. ET and landed within minutes of each other. The airlines are rivals but teamed up to commemorate the reopening of foreign travel to the U.S., and British Airways' CEO was aboard his company's flight, which touched down about 11 a.m. ET

American Airlines, which is a BA travel partner, saw bookings from London to US surge 70 percent in the past week, with a lot of the travel for remainder of 2021, said Chief Revenue Officer Vasu Raja.

Clive Wartten, who runs a business-travel group in the UK, arrived on the British Airways flight and was headed for a run in Central Park before meetings with colleagues. Wartten planned to fly home Tuesday night.

"It just feels good to be back on an airplane," he said. "There was a real buzz at the airport and aboard the aircraft, lots of cheering when we took off. It was a bit of a holiday party flight."

Wartten, who is the CEO of the Business Travel Association, later tweeted that he made it from the plane to one of New York's famed yellow taxis in just seven minutes.

"This is a big step for us to come back and open business travel with our US friends," he told USA TODAY while passing through the terminal.

British Airways CEO Sean Doyle  has been pushing the Biden administration to ease travel restrictions between the UK and the US for months because it is one of the busiest travel corridors in the world. At one point during the spring, he said, the second runway at Heathrow was closed because the airport hadn't seen such a limited number of flights since World War II.

"This has been a crisis like no other,'' he said Monday after arriving in New York.

Doyle believes the border reopening took too long – the UK and European Union started welcoming US tourists back over the summer – but on Monday said he didn't want to dwell on the past. Instead, he gushed about what the reopening means to British Airways and its passengers.

"The North Atlantic is very important to British Airways and today's a very, very important turning point and milestone in the future of the country,'' he said.

Is he worried travel restrictions could return if COVID cases spike on either side of the Atlantic? 

"You always have to keep an eye on things,'' he said. "But I do think that we're seeing a sort of pragmatic framework emerge across a number of jurisdictions.''

He said he hopes that that framework – basing entry requirements on vaccination and testing – remains despite any COVID trends going forward.

— Dawn Gilbertson, Morgan Hines, USA TODAY

Anticipation at airports

Ahead of the British Airways first flight arrival, family members waited in the Terminal 7 arrivals area at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, which is decked out with balloons and New York symbols including the back half of a taxicab filled with a floral arrangement and NYC-themed cookies. 

Louise Erebara, from Danbury, Connecticut, arrived at the airport with her family early to welcome her sister and her sister's husband after 730 days apart. 

"It's everything, we can't thank British Airways enough," a choked-up Erebara said, noting the airline paid for her relatives' flight. "They want to reunite ex-pats and they're doing it." 

In Atlanta, Ari Bell, waited anxiously for her fiancé to arrive from the UK after 21 months apart. They've bridged the distance with Snapchat, video calls and texts, and she was waiting to surprise him at the airport as he starts a three-week visit that will include his first-ever Thanksgiving.

"He actually came over for a quick job interview in February, right before the shutdown, got back to London and then that March, everything closed up. So we've just kind of been hanging on a string," Bell said. "It was a little bit confusing to get him here, just because he didn't know he needed a negative (test) so that three days prior we actually had to make that last minute. And he came back negative. He's already fully vaccinated. I'm vaccinated. I got my booster yesterday, just in case — I'm just excited to see him."

Bell said she's excited to just watch a movie together — for months, they've been watching movies simultaneously but separated by the Atlantic Ocean.

"We're homebodies. We like to game together. But yeah, that's mostly what we're looking forward to — just being in the same space together," she said. "This is going to be our first Thanksgiving together, his first Thanksgiving period. He's never celebrated. So we're actually gonna make the big meal and have all my family come over. He's a little nervous. But you know, he loves my dad. They're both ex-army. So they get along great."

And Rosa Chorra, 37, eagerly awaited her parents' arrival from Spain, waiting with her 10-month-old Aurora for their plane to land in Atland. Chorra's parents missed her pregnancy and granddaughter's birth, although Chorra was able to take Aurora to visit them three months ago. She said she missed having the help they could have provided with a newborn.

"It was absolutely horrible. I think it's been the hardest time of my life. I mean, when she was born, the first months that are the hardest, and it's been tough," Chorra said.

— Dawn Gilbertson, Morgan Hines, Eve Chen, USA TODAY

Headed to Disney World

For UK resident Emma Barbour and her family, the border reopening means one thing: Florida's Disney World with their 10-year-old daughter.

They usually come annually, but put those plans on hold after 2019, and rescheduled this trip three times as they waited for the Biden administration to lift the ban. Barbour, 41, said the airports were busy but staff seemed cheerful despite long lines.

"We honestly wouldn't travel if we felt unsafe or nervous, we are fully vaccinated and will wear our masks. I definitely won't let it tarnish our time there by worrying about it," she said from Paris as they waited to board their Atlanta-bound flight.

The British are coming

Sam Nagy and his family are headed to Florida, to the Universal Orlando Resort, their first trip to the U.S. since 2018. He said lines at the Manchester, England, airport were smooth, raising his hopes for the family vacation they've rescheduled four times already.

"That once-a-year trip is so much more to us than just a vacation, it honestly feels like it's ‘home' as cliché as that may be to say," said Nagy.

Paul Richards is flying from London to New York on Virgin Atlantic and described the airport scene as chaotic, with long check-in lines this morning. He is headed to New York City for vacation to celebrate his son's 21st birthday.

"They are working really hard to get people through, however, some passengers hadn't completed the attestation forms or just stood in the wrong queue,'' he said. "Once through check in, security was pretty slick.''

— Dawn Gilbertson, USA TODAY

Lines at the Canada-US border

At th Sweetgrass, Montana, border crossing, wait times climbed to 240 minutes -- four hours — according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Normal wait time is about 45 minutes.

Windsor, Ontario, Mayor Drew Dilkens said a Canadian travel requirement – having negative polymerase chain reaction test that can cost $200 – is likely to prevent many who want to drive from Ontario to Michigan from doing so.

He explained the testing provision doesn't make sense for day-trippers nor does it provide the kind of health assurance the government thinks it does because someone could easily contract the virus during their visit.

He wants to see that requirement lifted.

— Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press

How did the international travel ban start?

The travel ban barred most foreign nationals who had been in the listed countries in the past 14 days from entering the U.S., regardless of vaccination status. The country also cut off nonessential travel across the U.S. land borders with Mexico and Canada  in March 2020. 

It wasn't until September  that the White House announced that it would end the travel ban for fully vaccinated travelers – months after many other nations  reopened to U.S. tourists. 

The new U.S. entry requirements, which went into effect Monday, require foreign air passengers to test negative for the virus before boarding a plane to the country and, if they are 18 or older , show proof of full vaccination. Travelers entering the U.S. on land or by ferry for nonessential reasons also need to show proof of vaccination. 

As airports and border crossings get adjusted to the new travel rules, international travelers should prepare for lines .

The first flight from a country listed the travel ban is set to fly into Chicago from Dublin just before 7 a.m. CT, according to flight tracker Flight Aware and flight-data firm OAG.

Plenty more will follow; there are more than 2 million international flights scheduled to arrive in the U.S. next month, compared to just 728,820 in December of 2020, according to OAG and Flight Aware.

► US drops travel ban: Expect bottlenecks at airports under strict entry rules

Watch CBS News

What to know about the Biden administration's new travel rules

September 21, 2021 / 6:44 PM EDT / AP

The Biden administration is rolling out new international travel policies affecting Americans and foreigners alike who want to fly to the U.S. The goal is to restore more normal air travel  after 18 months of disruption caused by  COVID-19 .

The sweeping rules, which take effect in November, will replace a hodgepodge of confusing restrictions. Some details of the plan announced Monday are being worked out, but here are some questions and answers about what to expect.

What is the new policy in a nutshell?

All adult foreign nationals traveling to the U.S. will be required to be fully vaccinated before boarding their flight. This is in addition to the current requirement that travelers show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure to the U.S.

Once the vaccination requirement is put in place, the White House will ease all the country-specific restrictions on international travel that have prevented noncitizens who have been in the United Kingdom, European Union, China, India, Iran, Republic of Ireland, Brazil or South Africa in the prior 14 days from entering the U.S.

How does this affect U.S. travelers?

Fully vaccinated Americans will only need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure to the U.S.

What about unvaccinated Americans?

U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are not fully vaccinated will still be able to fly to the U.S., but they will see tougher testing and contact-tracing protocols. They will need to be tested within 24 hours of boarding a flight to the U.S., as well as undergo testing upon return to the country. It remains to be seen, though, how the federal government will enforce the testing requirement upon return.

How does this affect children?

The new U.S. policy only requires adult foreign nationals to be fully vaccinated in order to enter the U.S. The White House did not immediately say whether unvaccinated children will face different testing protocols when flying into the country.

Which vaccines are acceptable?

The CDC says the U.S. will accept full vaccination of travelers with any COVID-19 vaccine approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization, including those from Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson used in the U.S. Other vaccines are also approved by the WHO and used widely around the world, including from AstraZeneca and China's Sinovac, with varying degrees of effectiveness against COVID-19 and its more transmissible Delta variant. The WHO is reviewing Russia's Sputnik V vaccine but hasn't approved it.

How will this affect airfares?

Adit Damodaran, economist for the trave research firm Hopper, predicted that growing demand is likely to cause higher airfares on flights from Europe, although the rush to book flights could be slowed by the Delta variant and high COVID-19 rates in the U.S. If fares rise, it would mark a turnaround in prices since the start of the pandemic.

Will airlines collect data on passengers?

The CDC will require airlines to collect information about passengers and provide it to the health agency if it needs to conduct contact tracing. The airlines had resisted a similar change last year, when it was proposed by the CDC and eventually blocked by the Trump administration.

What about travel over land borders?

The administration's restrictions on crossing land borders from Mexico and Canada into the U.S. are to remain unchanged for now. That means that in some cases fully vaccinated people from the two American neighbors will soon be able fly to the U.S., but may not be able to make the same journey by car.

How will this affect the travel industry?

Analysts and industry officials think it will help. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce said lifting the current restrictions on international travelers will contribute to a durable recovery for the U.S. economy. Before Monday, the U.S. was on pace to lose $175 billion in export income from international visitors this year, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

How have the current restrictions affected global travel?

They have made it easier for Americans to visit Europe than the other way around. U.S. international travel in August was down 54% compared with two years ago, and arrivals by non-U.S. citizens were off 74%, according to Airlines for America.

How will the changes affect business travel?

There is pent-up demand among business travelers from Europe. Foreign executives who have been vaccinated will no longer have to prove that their travel to the United States serves the U.S. "national interest″ — a time-consuming process.

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COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

• As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S.  arriving by air  or  arriving by land or sea  no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 
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Navigating Connecting Flight Travel Restrictions: What You Need To Know

• Last updated Oct 31, 2023
• Difficulty Advanced

• Category United States

Travel restrictions connecting flights have become an important concern for travelers, especially in the current global situation. With many countries imposing strict regulations on entry and transit, it is crucial for travelers to navigate these restrictions effectively to reach their destination. Understanding the specific requirements and guidelines for connecting flights can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. This article explores the various travel restrictions and provides valuable insights for travelers planning to take connecting flights in the near future.

What You'll Learn

Are there any travel restrictions currently in place for connecting flights due to the covid-19 pandemic, what documentation or proof is required for travelers to take connecting flights during travel restrictions, how can travelers find out if their connecting flight is affected by travel restrictions in a particular country, are there any exemptions in place for certain individuals or circumstances when it comes to travel restrictions for connecting flights, what are some common challenges or obstacles faced by travelers due to travel restrictions for connecting flights.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted travel around the world, with many countries implementing travel restrictions and guidelines to control the spread of the virus. As a result, there have been several changes and restrictions put in place for connecting flights. It is important for travelers to stay informed and follow the guidelines set by the airlines and airports to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

One of the main factors to consider when planning a connecting flight during the pandemic is the entry requirements of the destination country. Many countries have specific entry restrictions and may require travelers to provide a negative COVID-19 test result, undergo quarantine upon arrival, or provide proof of vaccination. These requirements can vary depending on the country and can apply to both domestic and international travelers.

In some cases, travelers may need to obtain a transit visa or fit into a specific category of travelers allowed to transit through a particular country. It is essential to check the specific requirements of each country involved in the connecting flight to ensure compliance and avoid any issues or disruptions during the journey.

Additionally, some countries have implemented travel bans or restrictions for specific regions or countries with high COVID-19 case counts. This can affect the availability and feasibility of certain connecting flights. Airlines may cancel or change their flight schedules, leading to potential delays or the need for rerouting. It is advisable to check with the airline or travel agent for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules and any changes or cancellations related to the pandemic.

Airports have also implemented various safety measures and guidelines to protect passengers and limit the spread of the virus during transit. These measures may include mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing, enhanced sanitization protocols, and temperature checks. Passengers should be prepared to comply with these measures and follow any instructions provided by airport staff.

Considering the potential risks associated with connecting flights during the pandemic, it is advisable to minimize layover times and avoid unnecessary stopovers whenever possible. Longer layovers may increase the exposure to crowded areas and increase the risk of transmission. Choosing direct flights whenever available can help reduce the overall travel time and exposure to potential infection sources.

Overall, it is crucial for travelers to be well-informed about the travel restrictions, entry requirements, and safety measures in place for connecting flights during the COVID-19 pandemic. Staying updated with the latest information from the airlines, airports, and relevant government authorities is essential for a smooth and safe journey. By following the guidelines and taking necessary precautions, travelers can minimize the risks and enjoy their journey with peace of mind.

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In light of the ongoing travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many travelers may find themselves needing to take connecting flights in order to reach their final destination. However, there are certain documentation and proof requirements that need to be met in order to ensure smooth travel and compliance with the regulations set forth by the authorities. This article will discuss the essential documents and proof needed for travelers to take connecting flights during travel restrictions, providing scientific information, personal experiences, step-by-step guidance, and real-life examples.

Understanding the travel restrictions and requirements:

Before embarking on any journey, it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest travel restrictions imposed by the destination country as well as any transit countries. These restrictions may vary depending on the country's level of openness and the severity of the pandemic. It is advisable to consult official government sources such as the embassy or consulate to ensure accurate and reliable information.

Valid passport and visa:

A valid passport is a fundamental document required for international travel, including connecting flights. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. Some countries may also require a visa for transit purposes, especially if you need to pass through Immigration. Verify the visa requirements for each country involved in your itinerary and apply accordingly.

COVID-19 test results:

Many countries now require travelers to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test taken within a specific timeframe before departure. The type of test, the maximum allowed age of the test result, and other requirements can vary from country to country. It is crucial to research and comply with the specific testing requirements of each transit and destination country to avoid any complications during your journey.

Transit visas:

If you need to leave the airport during your layover, you may require a transit visa for that particular country. Research whether a transit visa is necessary based on your citizenship or the specific transit country's regulations. Failure to obtain the required transit visa could result in denied entry or inability to take the connecting flight.

Official travel advisories and health declarations:

During travel restrictions, authorities may require travelers to complete health declaration forms or provide other relevant information regarding their health and recent travel history. These forms can be accessed online or might be distributed on the flight. Make sure to complete these forms accurately and truthfully to ensure smooth travel and compliance with the regulations.

Airline-specific requirements:

Apart from the general travel restrictions, each airline may have its own specific requirements for travelers. These may include pre-registering for the flight, providing vaccination certificates, or other documentation. Check the airline's website or contact their customer service to obtain accurate information about their specific requirements.

In conclusion, travelers taking connecting flights during travel restrictions must be aware of the essential documentation and proof required for smooth travel. This includes a valid passport and visa, COVID-19 test results, transit visas (if applicable), official travel advisories, health declarations, and airline-specific requirements. It is important to conduct thorough research and stay updated on the latest travel regulations imposed by the destination and transit countries to ensure a hassle-free journey. Ignoring these requirements could result in denied entry or disqualification from taking the connecting flights.

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In today's globalized world, travelers often have to rely on connecting flights to reach their final destination. However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions and regulations can change frequently, making it difficult for passengers to determine if their connecting flight will be affected by these measures. Fortunately, there are several steps that travelers can take to ensure they are well-informed and prepared for any potential disruptions.

Step 1: Research the Destination Country's Travel Restrictions

The first step for travelers is to research the destination country's current travel restrictions. The easiest way to do this is by visiting the official government website or the embassy or consulate website of the country in question. These websites usually provide up-to-date information on entry requirements, quarantine measures, and any restrictions on transit passengers. It is important to check for any specific rules or exemptions that may apply to transit passengers, as these can vary depending on the country.

Step 2: Check with the Airline

After gathering information about the destination country's travel restrictions, the next step is to contact the airline through which the traveler has booked their connecting flight. Airlines have access to the latest information regarding travel restrictions and can provide guidance on whether the connecting flight is likely to be affected. It is advisable to contact the airline directly, either through their customer service hotline or by sending an email. Airlines are usually proactive in informing passengers of any changes or disruptions, so reaching out to them is crucial in getting accurate and timely information.

Step 3: Stay Updated on Official Travel Advisories

In addition to researching the destination country's travel restrictions and contacting the airline, it is important to stay updated on official travel advisories issued by the traveler's own government. These advisories provide valuable information on the overall situation in the destination country, as well as any specific restrictions or warnings for travelers. This information can help travelers make informed decisions about their connecting flights and decide whether it is safe and feasible to proceed with their travel plans.

Step 4: Consider Travel Insurance

Travelers should also consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation or disruption due to unforeseen circumstances, such as travel restrictions or flight cancellations. Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case the connecting flight is affected by travel restrictions. It is important to carefully read the terms and conditions of the insurance policy to understand what is covered and the necessary steps to file a claim.

Example Scenario:

To illustrate how travelers can navigate through travel restrictions for their connecting flights, let's consider a hypothetical situation. John is planning a trip from New York to Bali, with a connecting flight in Hong Kong. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he is concerned about the travel restrictions in place and the possibility of his connecting flight being affected.

John starts by researching the official government websites of Hong Kong and Indonesia to gather information on the current entry requirements and transit restrictions. He discovers that Hong Kong has specific guidelines for transit passengers and that travelers from certain countries may be exempt from certain quarantine measures. He also checks the Indonesian embassy website and finds that there are no specific restrictions on transit passengers entering Bali.

After researching the travel restrictions, John contacts the airline through which he booked his connecting flight. He explains his concerns and asks for information regarding any potential disruptions. The airline informs him that there have been no recent changes to the flight schedule and that his connecting flight is expected to operate as planned.

To stay updated on the overall situation, John regularly checks the official travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State. He also decides to purchase travel insurance that covers trip cancellation or disruption due to travel restrictions.

By following these steps, John can stay well-informed and prepared for any potential disruptions to his connecting flight. This proactive approach allows him to make informed decisions and ensures a smoother travel experience despite the uncertainties of travel restrictions.

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When it comes to travel restrictions for connecting flights, there are indeed certain exemptions in place for certain individuals or circumstances. These exemptions are designed to ensure that those who need to travel are able to do so, while still keeping public health and safety in mind.

One common exemption is for individuals who are traveling for essential purposes, such as medical treatment or to care for a sick family member. In these cases, the individual may be granted an exemption to the travel restrictions, allowing them to proceed with their connecting flight. This is done on a case-by-case basis, with the individual needing to provide documentation or proof of their essential purpose for travel.

Another exemption is for individuals who are transiting through a country but do not leave the airport. This means that if someone is traveling from one country to another and has a connecting flight in a third country, they may be exempt from the travel restrictions as long as they remain in the secure area of the airport and do not exit into the country itself. This exemption recognizes that these individuals are not entering the country and pose a lower risk to public health.

There are also exemptions for certain categories of individuals, such as diplomats or government officials. These individuals may be exempt from travel restrictions, as their travel is often deemed essential for diplomatic or government purposes. Again, this exemption is granted on a case-by-case basis and may require the individual to provide documentation or proof of their status.

It is important to note that even with these exemptions in place, individuals may still be subject to additional requirements, such as testing or quarantine upon arrival at their final destination. These requirements are in place to further mitigate the risk of transmission and ensure the safety of the population.

In conclusion, there are indeed exemptions in place for certain individuals or circumstances when it comes to travel restrictions for connecting flights. These exemptions are designed to balance the need for travel with public health and safety concerns. It is important for individuals to consult with the relevant authorities and airlines to determine if they qualify for any exemptions and what additional requirements may be in place.

Exploring the Global Status: Do Mass Have Travel Restrictions?

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented travel restrictions and challenges for travelers all around the world. One of the most significant challenges facing travelers is the restrictions and obstacles they face while planning and taking connecting flights.

Here are some common challenges and obstacles faced by travelers due to travel restrictions for connecting flights:

• Limited flight options: With the ongoing travel restrictions, airlines have greatly reduced their flight operations. This means that travelers have fewer options when it comes to choosing connecting flights. They may need to wait longer or change their travel plans entirely to find a suitable connecting flight.
• Increased travel time: Travelers may face longer travel times due to limited flight schedules and the need to comply with additional health and safety protocols. They may need to wait longer for connecting flights or choose flights with longer layovers to ensure compliance with testing and quarantine requirements.
• Changing travel regulations: Travel restrictions and regulations are constantly changing due to the evolving nature of the pandemic. Travelers may face challenges in staying updated with the latest regulations and ensuring compliance with testing and quarantine requirements. They may need to make last-minute changes to their itineraries or face unexpected delays or cancellations.
• Additional health and safety protocols: Travelers may face additional health and safety protocols at airports and during connecting flights. These protocols may include temperature checks, health questionnaires, and COVID-19 testing. Complying with these protocols can add extra time and complexity to the travel process.
• Uncertainty and unpredictability: The travel landscape is highly uncertain and unpredictable due to the ongoing pandemic. Travelers may face sudden changes in travel restrictions, flight cancellations, or quarantine requirements. This can lead to added stress and anxiety, as travelers may not have control over these external factors.

To overcome these challenges and obstacles, it is important for travelers to stay informed and plan ahead. They should regularly check travel advisories and airline websites for updates on travel restrictions and regulations. It is also advisable to book flexible tickets and travel insurance that can provide coverage for unexpected changes or cancellations.

Travelers should allow for extra time during layovers and ensure they have all the necessary documents, such as negative COVID-19 test results, vaccination certificates, and travel authorizations. It is also crucial to comply with all health and safety protocols and follow any additional instructions provided by airport and airline staff.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about numerous challenges and obstacles for travelers, particularly when it comes to connecting flights. Limited flight options, increased travel time, changing travel regulations, additional health and safety protocols, and uncertainty are some of the common challenges faced by travelers. By staying informed, planning ahead, and complying with regulations, travelers can navigate these challenges more effectively and ensure a smoother travel experience.

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Frequently asked questions.

Yes, there may be travel restrictions for connecting flights. Each country has different entry requirements and travel restrictions. It is important to check the latest information from the relevant authorities before planning your trip.

Whether you need a visa for a connecting flight depends on the country you are transiting through. Some countries may require a transit visa, while others may not. It is advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you will be transiting through to determine if a visa is required.

Whether you can leave the airport during a layover depends on the duration of your layover and if you have the necessary documents, such as a visa, to enter the country. If you have a long layover and meet the entry requirements, you may be able to leave the airport and explore the city. However, if your layover is short or you do not have the necessary documents, it is best to stay in the airport.

If you miss your connecting flight due to travel restrictions, it is important to contact your airline immediately. The airline may be able to rebook you on the next available flight or provide alternative arrangements. It is also advisable to check your travel insurance policy, as it may cover additional expenses incurred due to missed connections.

Yes, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many countries have implemented specific travel restrictions for connecting flights. These can include mandatory quarantine upon arrival, proof of negative COVID-19 test results, and additional health screening measures. It is important to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and guidelines from the relevant authorities to ensure a smooth journey.

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• Jose Ramos Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

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Main content

Frequently asked questions about entering the usa.

Since 8 November, the United States of America are open again for vaccinated travellers. You can find more information in our frequently asked questions and answers. 

Four steps to be better prepared for your trip

Use the digital document check until 8 hours before your flight to upload your proof of vaccination, a negative Covid-19 test result (PCR or antigen, max. one day old) and the Combined Passenger Disclosure and Attestation to the US.

Once you have received confirmation that your Covid-19 travel documents have been verified, check in online via our website or app from 23 hours before your flight and select your seat.

Be fully prepared and use your boarding pass to check in your baggage at our bag drop-off machines at many airports and so avoid queues at the check-in desks.

Please check the validity of all relevant entry documents (e.g. ESTA) in advance and carry them with you throughout your trip.

Please comply with the compulsory use of masks before and during the flight, as well as when leaving the aircraft.

Have a good flight.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

When will it be possible to travel to the usa again.

We look forward to the USA opening up again to fully vaccinated travellers since 8 November.

Who may enter the USA?

According to the new guidelines, travellers who are fully vaccinated with WHO-certified vaccines and have a negative Covid-19 test (PCR or antigen) no more than one day old can enter the USA without restrictions.

What does “fully vaccinated” mean?

A person is considered fully vaccinated if he or she has completed the vaccination series with a WHO/FDA-approved vaccine (also in combination) at least two weeks previously. Approved vaccines include: Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Sinovac.

What happens to unvaccinated passengers? Children, for example, and people who cannot be vaccinated?

The following groups are exempt from the vaccination requirement:

• Children under 18 years
• US citizens
• Diplomatic and official government travellers
• UNO travellers with the appropriate visas
• Passengers vaccinated with Covid-19 vaccines from clinical trials
• Persons with a medical contraindication to vaccination
• Exception groups according to CDC (humanitarian and emergency exceptions)
• People from countries of origin with less than 10% vaccine availability
• US military personnel, sea crew members
• Persons with national interest exception (confirmed by the Secretary of State, Secretary of Homeland Security or Secretary of Transport)

Travellers who belong to one of the aforementioned exemption groups must carry the relevant documents confirming their particular exemption status. In addition, the Combined Passenger Disclosure and Attestation to the US must be completed and carried with you.

As a general rule, travellers belonging to this group must also have a negative Covid-19 test (PCR or antigen) that is no more than one day old. Children under two years of age are exempt.

Depending on the exemption group to which you belong, you will also need to confirm that you will have another test done during the 3-5 day period and go into 7-day self-isolation. Children under 18 travelling with their vaccinated parents are exempt.

You can find more information on the "Centers for Disease Control and Prevention" website.

Certain groups may also be exempt from the testing requirement under certain preconditions. These may include, for example, people who have recovered. Please inform yourself fully if you belong to one of these groups and make sure yourself in advance that you have all the necessary documents with you to be able to travel.

Which rules apply for passengers who have recovered from Covid-19?

Also persons who have recovered from Covid-19 have to be fully vaccinated to be able to enter the USA. According to the US definition, a person is fully vaccinated if he or she has been vaccinated with a vaccine approved by WHO / FDA  and the final dose has been received at least 2 weeks before travelling. A single dose of an approved vaccine (e.g. BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna) together with a recovery certificate is not considered fully vaccinated according to the US regulations.

Recovered passengers need to carry and present the following documents:

• A positive test result (conducted on a specimen collected no more than 90 days before departure; for flights with SWISS or via Switzerland, the test must additionally be at least 10 days old)
• A letter issued by a licensed health care provider or public health official stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (fit-to-fly)
• Proof of vaccination (according to US definition)
• Combined Passenger Disclosure and Attestation to the US

How does Lufthansa check the vaccination status of passengers?

By checking the traveller’s digital or physical vaccination certificate, as is already the case today for many destinations.

How do I get my documents checked before travelling?

Use the free option to have your Covid-19 travel documents checked by our Health Entry Support Centre before the start of your trip. This will help you enjoy a relaxed start to your flight.

What documents must passengers present at check-in?

• Travel documents (Passport, ESTA/Visa, Permanent Resident Card)
• Vaccination certificate (digital or physical copy)
• A negative Covid-19 test no more than one day old in order to be able to enter without restrictions
• Combined Passenger Disclosure and Attestation to the US (for flights from 8 November onwards)

Please ensure that your ESTA is still valid, as in certain cases ESTAs that are apparently still valid may have lost their validity.

Can passengers have a Covid-19 test at the airport?

PCR and antigen tests can be carried out at CENTOGENE at the airports in Frankfurt and Munich. The costs vary depending on how quickly the test result is required. The result of an antigen test is usually available in 30 minutes. There are PCR Express Test facilities both in Frankfurt and Munich (Frankfurt Airport: 35 minutes, Munich Airport: 60 minutes).

Are passengers required to wear face masks on flights to and from the US?

Yes, on flights to and from the USA, all passengers, including children over the age of two, are required to wear face masks.

Which flight destinations to the USA are there?

With the extensive Lufthansa Group route network and numerous flight connections via Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, Zurich and Brussels, travellers can reach 17 destinations in the USA with around 200 weekly connections.

Can travellers travel/transfer via the USA?

The rules for international transfers via the USA have not yet been announced.

Can travellers use Lufthansa Group flights to transfer from other European cities to the USA via Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich or Vienna?

Yes, travellers can transfer via the airports in Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich and Vienna providing the requirements for both the transfer and the destination country are met.

Can vaccinated travellers from non-Schengen countries enter the USA via Germany, Austria, Switzerland or Belgium?

Yes, travellers can enter the USA via Germany, Austria, Switzerland or Belgium providing the requirements for both the transfer and the destination country are met.

What other helpful hints are there?

Where possible, use our self-service baggage drop-off facilities for checking in your baggage.

Please allow extra time at immigration in the USA due to staff shortages.

What do I need to be aware of when flying United Airlines?

You will find the relevant information for your trip in the United Travel-Ready Center.

This might also be of interest to you

Travelling and Covid-19

At Lufthansa, your safety is our top priority. That is why you will find the most important information about planning your journey here.

Entry regulations for your destination

Check the entry requirements at your destination, or find out about the requirements for Covid-19 tests.

Digital document check

On selected routes you can have your Covid-19 travel documents checked in advance.

Simple Flying

What should you know before taking a connecting flight 5 top tips.

Catching a connecting flight can be a stressful ordeal. But preparation can help things go smoothly.

• Avoid buying two separate tickets to prevent no-show issues.
• Avoid tight connections to minimize the chances of missing flights.
• Choose a convenient seat to ensure quick deplaning and reach connecting gates easily.

Not all passengers have the luxury of hopping on a direct flight to their destination. It could be a destination that doesn’t have a direct flight, or it could be cheaper to catch a connecting flight. Whatever the reason, you have to catch two or more flights on your trip.

There are a plethora of issues that can arise when flying on a connecting ticket. The biggest problem is that there is always a chance of missing your connecting flight or flights because of an unforeseen delay or cancellation. Airlines could also misplace your bags as they send them from one aircraft to another.

But not all is out of your control. Here are some tips to make your trip as hassle-free as possible.

5 Avoid buying two separate tickets.

A connecting flight usually means that you want to travel from destination A to destination B by making a pitstop at destination C. But there are multiple ways you can get there.

You could buy a ticket from A to C and another from C to B. This is often cheaper, especially if you fly on budget airlines. But you should avoid doing so, even if it's on the same airline and it's cheaper.

If your first flight is delayed, and you miss your second flight, the other airline will treat it as a no-show and won’t be obligated to put you on another flight for free. You will almost always have to purchase another ticket for the next available flight and any additional costs associated with the wait, such as food or an overnight hotel stay.

In addition, you can’t get your bags checked in directly to your final destination. So once you get to your connecting destination , you’ll have to go to the baggage claim and check in again. There’s also a higher chance of losing your bags in this manner, as being loaded and unloaded from the airplane to the airport and back once more than it would if you had a connecting flight with a single ticket.

If the two tickets are with the same airline, you’ll run into similar problems, but you can argue your way through to get a spot on another flight or get your bags checked through to the final destination.

4 Avoid tight connections

Depending on how you book your flights, you’ll either rush to get to your connecting flight or have plenty of time to spare while waiting for your next flight. Ideally, we want to be somewhere in the middle, minimizing the chances of missing the flight and reducing wait times.

30 minutes between gates might seem like plenty of time. However, time disappears quickly as you wait to deplane, find your gate , and head there. Depending on the flight, you might even have to switch terminals. In larger airports, switching terminals is complicated, and you often have to take trains or buses to get to the next terminal.

So make sure you know which terminal you’ll be headed to and estimate how long it will take to travel across the airport. Include about 15 minutes to deplane as well. You want to give yourself a good cushion between connecting flights. With ample time between connections, you’re less likely to miss a flight due to delays and crowded airports.

Do You Have To Go Through Security Again For A Connecting Flight?

3 choose a convenient seat.

As previously mentioned, it takes a while to deplane, especially if you’re sitting towards the back of the aircraft. If you’re catching a connecting flight, it might help to spend a little extra and pick an aisle seat at the front of whichever cabin you’re seated in.

If you’re on a flight without the option to choose a seat, you can let the gate agent know of your predicament. They will often do their best to secure a seat from which you can make a quick getaway.

It’s especially important to pick a seat that allows you to deplane quickly if you have a tight connection. Those extra few minutes you save while deplaning can make or break you catching your next flight.

You should also communicate with your cabin crew and let them know that you’re running late for a connecting flight. They may be able to help you deplane quicker and call for a buggy to transport you to the next gate.

2 Avoid crowded airports

If time is of the essence, you want to avoid crowds, so it is best to avoid large hub airports. Size isn’t always the issue, though. Some hubs are just better than others. They have faster security and screening procedures and usually have quick-moving traffic. So, if you can’t avoid crowded airports, choose the right airport to fly to.

Certain airports have entire terminals dedicated to a single airline. Flying into one of these airports for your connecting flight. It ensures you won’t spend too much time walking from one gate to another.

Additionally, before you head out, download the maps of the airports from which you are departing and connecting. Formulate a route and plan to get through the airport as quickly and efficiently as possible.

According to CNN , these are the airports with the most delays in 2022:

1 Avoid the last flight of the day

Many people choose to fly red-eyes or the last flight of the day because it's often cheaper, and the airports are not as crowded late at night and early in the morning. However, the issue that crops up here is that if you miss one, you’re likely stuck at the airport for much longer.

If your airline has multiple flights a day from the airport in question, try your best to choose an earlier one. Should you happen to miss the flight, you’re more likely to have another option comparatively shortly.

Connecting Between London Heathrow Airport's Terminals: A Brief Guide

Toronto pearson international airport, frankfurt airport, paris charles de gaulle airport.

An official website of the United States government Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

A Consumer Guide to Air Travel

Schedules and tickets.

• Delayed and Canceled Flights

Overbooking

Passengers with disabilities.

• Frequent-Flyer Programs

Contract Terms

Travel scams, to your health, airline safety and security, complaining.

Notice: We make every effort to keep Fly-Rights up to date, but airlines frequently change the way they do business. So by the time you read this, a few procedures we explain may be different.

Introduction

The elimination of government regulation of airline fares and routes has resulted in lower fares and a wide variety of price/service options. In this new commercial environment, consumers have had to take a more active role in choosing their air service by learning to ask a number of questions:

• Am I more concerned with price or with schedule? Am I willing to fly at a less convenient time if it means saving $25?
• Will the airline penalize me for changing my reservation/
• Will I have to pay extra for checked bags or for seat assignments?
• What will the airline do for me if it cancels my flight?
• This booklet is designed to explain your rights and responsibilities as an air traveler and to show you how to avoid problems. We hope it helps you become a more resourceful consumer.

Because of the emphasis on price competition, consumers may choose from a wide variety of air fares. It is easy to compare fares and schedules on the Web, using airline web sites or third-party reservation services.  You can also contact a travel agent, another ticket outlet, or the airlines serving the places you want to travel to. (Some airlines and other outlets charge a fee for tickets purchased by means other than the Web.  On the other hand, a few airlines may charge a fee for tickets that are purchased via the Web.) You can also be alert to newspaper and radio ads, where airlines advertise many of the discounts available in your city. Finally, be alert to new companies serving the market. They may offer lower fares or different services than older established airlines. Here are some tips to help you decide among air fares:

• Be flexible in your travel plans in order to get the lowest fare. The best deals may be limited to travel on certain days of the week (particularly midweek or Saturday) or certain hours of the day (e.g., early-morning flights or overnight "red eyes"). When searching flights and fares on the Web you can usually specify whether your dates are flexible, and in the search results the fares are generally listed from lowest to highest. If you are shopping by phone or in person, after you get a fare quote ask the reservations agent if you could save even more by leaving a day earlier or later, or by taking a different flight on the same day.
• Plan as far ahead as you can. Some airlines set aside only a few seats on each flight at the lower rates. The real bargains often sell out very quickly. On the other hand, air carriers sometimes make more discount seats available later. If you had decided against a trip because the price you wanted was not available when you first inquired, try again, especially just before the advance-purchase deadline. Flights for holiday periods may sell out months ahead of time, although in many cases you can find a seat if you elect to travel on the holiday itself, e.g. Christmas Day or Thanksgiving Day.
• Some airlines may have discounts that others don't offer. In a large metropolitan area, the fare could depend on which airport you use. Also, a connection (change of planes) or a one-stop flight is sometimes cheaper than a nonstop.
• Be aware that many airlines charge extra for checked baggage, advance seat assignments, meals, or other services.  Airlines include information on these fees on their web sites.
• If you have a connection involving two airlines, ask whether your bags will be transferred. Ask whether your ticket will be good on another carrier at no extra charge if your flight is canceled or experiences a lengthy delay, and whether the first airline will pay for meals or a hotel room during the wait.
• Most discount fares are non-refundable; if you buy one of these fares and you later cancel your trip, you will not get your money back. In many cases you can apply your ticket to another trip in the future, but there may be a steep fee.  Many fares also have a penalty for changing flights or dates even if you don't want a refund. You may also have to pay any difference in air fares if your fare-type is not available on the new flight.
• After you buy your ticket, call the airline or travel agent once or twice before departure to check the fare. Fares change all the time, and if the fare you paid goes down before you fly, some airlines will refund the difference (or give you a transportation credit for that amount). But you have to ask. 
• Differences in air fares can be substantial. Careful comparison shopping among airlines does take time, but it can lead to real savings.

Once you decide when and where you want to go, and which airline you want to use, you will usually have to purchase a ticket in order to hold a confirmed seat. However, many large airlines will hold a reservation for 24 hours or so without payment. Others require payment at the time you make a reservation but will provide a full refund if you cancel in the first day or so.  When available, both of these procedures permit you to hold a seat and a fare for a short time while continuing to shop for a better deal. Be aware of the following considerations when selecting a flight and buying a ticket:

• Check the on-time performance percentage for flights that you are considering. On-time performance percentages for individual flights of the larger U.S. airlines are available by phone from those airlines upon request. These airlines are also required to post this information on their web sites, with special notice for flights that experienced serious delays or cancellations. If you are deciding between two flights with similar schedules and fares, you may want to choose the one with the better on-time record. (Only the largest U.S. airlines are required to maintain and provide on-time performance data.) You can see aggregate information about airline and airport on-time performance and a list of the most frequently delayed flights in DOT’s monthly  Air Travel Consumer Report . Also, the web site of DOT’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics ( www.bts.gov ) contains detailed on-time performance data for the large U.S. airlines that are required to report this information.
• When you buy a ticket, be sure all of the information is recorded accurately. Before you click "Submit" or make a final commitment to a reservations agent, review all of the essential information ? the spelling of your name, the flight numbers and travel dates, and the cities you are traveling between. Use the form of your name that is on the photo ID that you will show at the airport. (For an international flight, this will be your passport.) If there is more than one airport at either city, be sure you check which one you'll be using. It's also important to give the airline more than one telephone number and an email address so they can let you know if there is any change in its schedule.
• A "direct" (or "through") flight with a single flight number can have one or more intermediate stops. A connection (change of planes) nearly always has a separate flight number for each flight, but sometimes the two flights are listed on the same line in schedules.  Look carefully at the "Stops" column and the departure and arrival times to determine whether the flight suits your needs.
• If you are flying to a small city and your flight number has four digits, you may be booked on a commuter airline that has an agreement with the major carrier in whose name the flight is advertised and sold. Look for disclosures of these so-called "code-share" flights in the schedules, or ask the reservations agent.  DOT requires that you be provided this information.
• As soon as you receive your ticket or email confirmation, check to make sure all the information on it is correct, especially your name, the airports (if any of the cities have more than one) and the flight dates. Pursue any necessary corrections immediately.
• You will need to show a government-issued photo I.D. when you fly.  It is important that your name as it appears on the ticket is the same as it appears on the I.D. you will be using.  If your name has recently changed and the name on your ticket and your I.D. are different (or will be different by the time of your trip), bring documentation of the change (e.g., a marriage certificate or court order).
• Many European countries ("the Schengen states") require that your passport be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.  For more information see the Department of State's Schengen web page at  http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/schengen-fact-sheet.html .
• Re-check the departure and arrival times of your flights a few days before your trip; schedules sometimes change. On international trips, some airlines may require that you reconfirm your onward or return reservations at least 72 hours before each flight. If you don't, your reservations may be canceled.
• Bring your ticket or printed confirmation to the airport. You may also be able to print your boarding pass from the carrier’s web site within 24 hours of departure. This speeds your check-in and helps you avoid some of the tension you might otherwise feel if you had to wait in a slow-moving line at the airport.
• Payment by credit card provides certain protections under federal credit laws. When a refund is due, the airline must forward a credit to your card company within seven business days after receiving a complete refund application; however, the credit may take a month or two to appear on your statement. If you paid by credit card for a refundable fare and you have trouble getting a refund that you are due (e.g., you have a refundable fare, or you have a nonrefundable fare and the airline canceled your flight and you did not travel as a result), report this in writing to your credit card company. If you write to them within 60 days from the time that they mailed your first monthly statement showing the charge for the airline ticket, the card company should credit your account even if the airline doesn't. This procedure is particularly useful if your airline ceases operations before your flight.

NOTE: In some cases tickets purchased overseas in foreign currency can only be refunded in that same currency and country, due to foreign government monetary restrictions. Keep this in mind if you are considering buying a ticket in a foreign country.

Delayed and Cancelled Flights

Airlines don't guarantee their schedules, and you should realize this when planning your trip. There are many things that can-and often do-make it impossible for flights to arrive on time. Some of these problems, like bad weather, air traffic delays, and mechanical issues, are hard to predict and often beyond the airlines' control.

If your flight is delayed, try to find out how late it will be. But keep in mind that it is sometimes difficult for airlines to estimate the total duration of a delay during its early stages. In so- called "creeping delays," developments occur which were not anticipated when the carrier made its initial estimate of the length of the delay. Weather that had been forecast to improve can instead deteriorate, or a mechanical problem can turn out to be more complex than initially evaluated. If the problem is with local weather or air traffic control, all flights will probably be late and there's not much you or the airline can do to speed up your departure. If your flight is experiencing a lengthy delay, you might be better off trying to arrange another flight, as long as you don't have to pay a cancellation penalty or higher fare for changing your reservations. (It is sometimes easier to make such arrangements by phone than at a ticket counter.) If you find a flight on another airline, ask the first airline if it will endorse your ticket to the new carrier; this could save you a fare collection. Remember, however, that there is no rule requiring them to do this.

If your flight is canceled, most airlines will rebook you on their first flight to your destination on which space is available, at no additional charge. If this involves a significant delay, find out if another carrier has space and ask the first airline if they will endorse your ticket to the other carrier. Finding extra seats may be difficult, however, especially over holidays and other peak travel times.

Each airline has its own policies about what it will do for delayed passengers waiting at the airport; there are no federal requirements. If you are delayed, ask the airline staff if it will pay for meals or a phone call. Some airlines, often those charging very low fares, do not provide any amenities to stranded passengers. Others may not offer amenities if the delay is caused by bad weather or something else beyond the airline's control. Contrary to popular belief, for domestic itineraries airlines are not required to compensate passengers whose flights are delayed or canceled. As discussed in the chapter on overbooking, compensation is required by law on domestic trips only when you are "bumped" from a flight that is oversold. On international itineraries, passengers may be able to recover reimbursement under Article 19 of the Montreal Convention for expenses resulting from a delayed or canceled flight by filing a claim with the airline.  If the claim is denied, you may pursue the matter in court if you believe that the carrier did not take all measures that could reasonably be required to avoid the damages caused by the delay.

If the purpose of your trip is to close a potentially lucrative business deal, give a speech or lecture, attend a family function, or connect to a cruise, you might want to allow a little extra leeway and take an earlier flight. In other words, airline delays aren't unusual, and defensive planning is a good idea when time is your most important consideration.

Some flights are delayed on the airport "tarmac" before taking off or after landing. DOT rules prohibit most U.S. airlines from allowing a domestic flight to remain on the tarmac for more than three hours unless:

• the pilot determines that there is a safety or security reason why the aircraft cannot taxi to the gate and deplane its passengers, or
• Air traffic control advises the pilot that taxiing to the gate (or to another location where passengers can be deplaned) would significantly disrupt airport operations.

U.S. airlines operating international flights to or from most U.S.airports must each establish and comply with their own limit on the length of tarmac delays on those flights. On both domestic and international flights, U.S. airlines must provide passengers with food and water no later than two hours after the tarmac delay begins. While the aircraft remains on the tarmac lavatories must remain operable and medical attention must be available if needed.

When booking your flight remember that a departure early in the day is less likely to be delayed than a later flight, due to "ripple" effects of delays throughout the day. Also, if an early flight does get delayed or canceled, you have more rerouting options. If you book the last flight of the day and it is canceled, you could get stuck overnight. You may select a connection (change of planes) over a nonstop or direct flight because of the convenient departure time or lower fare. However, a change of planes always involves the possibility of a misconnection. If you have a choice of connections and the fares and service are equivalent, choose the one with the least-congested connecting airport, so it will be easier to get to your second flight. You may wish to take into consideration the potential for adverse weather if you have a choice of connecting cities. When making your reservation for a connection, always check the amount of time between flights. Ask yourself what will happen if the first flight is delayed; if you don't like the answer, pick another flight or "construct" a connection that allows more time.

Overbooking is not illegal, and most airlines overbook their scheduled flights to a certain extent in order to compensate for "no-shows." Passengers are sometimes left behind or "bumped" as a result. When an oversale occurs, the Department of Transportation (DOT) requires airlines to ask people who aren't in a hurry to give up their seats voluntarily, in exchange for compensation. Those passengers bumped against their will are, with a few exceptions, entitled to compensation.

Voluntary Bumping

Almost any planeload of airline passengers includes some people with urgent travel needs and others who may be more concerned about the cost of their tickets than about getting to their destination on time. DOT rules require airlines to seek out people who are willing to give up their seats for compensation before bumping anyone involuntarily. Here's how this works. At the check-in or boarding area, airline employees will look for volunteers when it appears that the flight has been oversold. If you're not in a rush to arrive at your next destination, you can give your reservation back to the airline in exchange for compensation and a later flight. But before you do this, you may want to get answers to these important questions:

• When is the next flight on which the airline can confirm your seat? The alternate flight may be just as acceptable to you. On the other hand, if the airline offers to put you on standby on another flight that's full, you could be stranded.
• Will the airline provide other amenities such as free meals, a hotel room, transfers between the hotel and the airport, and a phone card? If not, you might have to spend the money it offers you on food or lodging while you wait for the next flight.

DOT has not mandated the form or amount of compensation that airlines offer to volunteers. DOT does, however, require airlines to advise any volunteer whether he or she might be involuntarily bumped and, if that were to occur, the amount of compensation that would be due. Carriers can negotiate with their passengers for mutually acceptable compensation.  Airlines generally offer a free trip or other transportation benefits to prospective volunteers. The airlines give employees guidelines for bargaining with passengers, and they may select those volunteers willing to sell back their reservations for the lowest price. If the airline offers you a free ticket or a transportation voucher in a certain dollar amount, ask about restrictions. How long is the ticket or voucher good for? Is it "blacked out" during holiday periods when you might want to use it? Can it be used for international flights?

Involuntary Bumping

DOT requires each airline to give all passengers who are bumped involuntarily a written statement describing their rights and explaining how the carrier decides who gets on an oversold flight and who doesn't. Those travelers who don't get to fly are frequently entitled to denied boarding compensation in the form of a check or cash. The minimum amount depends on the price of the traveler's ticket and the length of the delay. DOT's requirements are the minimum but airlines may choose to provide a higher amount.

• If you are bumped involuntarily and the airline arranges substitute transportation that is scheduled to get you to your final destination (including later connections) within one hour of your original scheduled arrival time, there is no compensation.
• If the airline arranges substitute transportation that is scheduled to arrive at your destination between one and two hours after your original arrival time (between one and four hours on international flights), the airline must pay you, at a minimum, an amount equal to 200% of your one-way fare to your final destination that day, or $775, whichever amount is lower.
• If the substitute transportation is scheduled to get you to your destination more than two hours later (four hours internationally), or if the airline does not make any substitute travel arrangements for you, the minimum compensation doubles (400% of your one-way fare, or $1,550, whichever amount is lower).
• If your ticket does not show a fare (for example, a frequent-flyer award ticket or a ticket issued by a consolidator), your denied boarding compensation is based on the lowest cash, check or credit card payment charged for a ticket in the same class of service (e.g., coach, first class) on that flight.
• You always get to keep your original ticket and use it on another flight. If you choose to make your own arrangements, you can request an "involuntary refund" for the ticket for the flight you were bumped from. The denied boarding compensation is essentially a payment for your inconvenience.
• If you paid for optional services on your original flight (e.g., seat selection, checked baggage) and you did not receive those services on your substitute flight or were required to pay a second time, the airline that bumped you must refund those payments to you.

Like all rules, however, there are a few conditions and exceptions:

• To be eligible for compensation, you must have a confirmed reservation. A written confirmation issued by the airline or an authorized agent or reservation service qualifies you in this regard even if the airline can't find your reservation in the computer, as long as you didn't cancel your reservation or miss a reconfirmation deadline.
• Each airline has a check-in deadline, which is the amount of time before scheduled departure that you must present yourself to the airline at the airport. For domestic flights most carriers require you to be at the departure gate between 10 minutes and 30 minutes before scheduled departure, but some deadlines can be an hour or longer. Check-in deadlines on international flights can be as much as three hours before scheduled departure time. Some airlines may simply require you to be at the ticket/baggage counter by this time; most, however, require that you get all the way to the boarding area. Some may have deadlines at both locations. If you miss the check-in deadline, you may have lost your reservation and your right to compensation if the flight is oversold.

As noted above, no compensation is due if the airline arranges substitute transportation which is scheduled to arrive at your destination within one hour of your originally scheduled arrival time.

If the airline must substitute a smaller plane for the one it originally planned to use, the carrier isn't required to pay people who are bumped as a result. In addition, on flights using aircraft with 30 through 60 passenger seats, compensation is not required if you were bumped due to safety-related aircraft weight or balance constraints.

The rules do not apply to charter flights, or to scheduled flights operated with planes that hold fewer than 30 passengers. They don't apply to international flights inbound to the United States, although some airlines on these routes may follow them voluntarily. Also, if you are flying between two foreign cities -- from Paris to Rome, for example -- these rules will not apply. The European Commission has a rule on bumpings that occur in an EC country; ask the airline for details, or go to  http://ec.europa.eu/transport/passengers/air/air_en.htm .

Airlines set their own "boarding priorities" -- the order in which they will bump different categories of passengers in an oversale situation. When a flight is oversold and there are not enough volunteers, some airlines bump passengers with the lowest fares first. Others bump the last passengers to check in. Once you have purchased your ticket, the most effective way to reduce the risk of being bumped is to get to the airport early. For passengers in the same fare class the last passengers to check in are usually the first to be bumped, even if they have met the check-in deadline. Allow extra time; assume that the roads are backed up, the parking lot is full, and there is a long line at the check-in counter.

Airlines may offer free tickets or dollar-amount vouchers for future flights in place of a check for denied boarding compensation. However, if you are bumped involuntarily you have the right to insist on a check if that is your preference. Once you cash the check (or accept the free flight), you will probably lose the ability to pursue more money from the airline later on. However, if being bumped costs you more money than the airline will pay you at the airport, you can try to negotiate a higher settlement with their complaint department. If this doesn't work, you usually have 30 days from the date on the check to decide if you want to accept the amount of the check. You are always free to decline the check (e.g., not cash it) and take the airline to court to try to obtain more compensation. DOT's denied boarding regulation spells out the airlines' minimum obligation to people they bump involuntarily. Finally, don't be a "no-show." If you are holding confirmed reservations you don't plan to use, notify the airline. If you don't, they will cancel all onward or return reservations on your trip.

When an airlines determines that one or more passengers will be involuntarily bumped because the flight is oversold, the airline generally selects those passengers at the gate area before those passengers are accepted for boarding and allowed to board the flight.  Once a passenger has been accepted for boarding or has already boarded the flight, airlines are not permitted  to require that passenger deplane, unless the removal of the passenger is required by safety, security, or health reasons, or the removal is due to the passenger’s unlawful behavior.

Between the time you check your luggage in and the time you claim it at your destination, it may have passed through a maze of conveyor belts and baggage carts.  Once airborne, baggage may tumble around the cargo compartment if the plane hits rough air. In all fairness to the airlines, however, relatively few bags are damaged or lost. With some common-sense packing and other precautions, your bags will likely be among the ones that arrive safely.

You can pack to avoid problems. Certain items should never be put into a piece of luggage that you plan to check into the baggage compartment:

• Small valuables: cash, credit cards, jewelry, an expensive camera.
• Critical items: medicine, keys, passport, tour vouchers, business papers.
• Irreplaceable items: manuscript, heirlooms.
• Fragile items: eyeglasses, glass containers, liquids.

Things like this should be carried on your person or packed in a carry-on bag. Remember, the only way to be sure your valuables are not damaged or lost is to keep them with you. Full flights sometimes run out of room in the cabin for full-size carry-on bags. In those situations the airline must sometimes "gate check" the carry-on baggage of the last passengers to board the flight.  This happens near the door to the aircraft.  Pack your carry-on bag in a manner so that if it must be gate-checked you can quickly remove the fragile, valuable and critical items described above.  For example, consider packing all such items in a small, soft bag that will fit under the seat in front of you, and make sure that this small bag is easily accessible in your carry-on bag.

Although only a tiny percentage of checked bags are permanently lost, your bag might be delayed for a day or two. Don't put perishables in a checked bag; they may spoil if it is delayed. It is wise to put items that you will need during the first 24 hours in a carry-on bag (e.g. toiletries, a change of underwear). Check with the airline for its limits on the size, weight, and number of carry-on pieces. As of this writing, on most flights you are allowed to carry on one bag plus one personal item (e.g., purse, briefcase, camera bag, laptop computer bag).

If you are using more than one airline, check with all of them. Inquire about your flight; different airplanes can have different limits. Don't assume that the flight will have closet space for every carry-on garment bag; yours may have to be checked. If you plan to go shopping at your destination and bring your purchases aboard as carry-on, keep the limits in mind. If you check these purchases, however, carry the receipts separately; they may be necessary for a claim if the merchandise is lost or damaged. Don't put anything into a carry-on bag that could be considered a weapon (e.g. certain scissors, pocket knives). Check the web site of the  Transportation Security Administration  (TSA) for restrictions on carry-on baggage by click "Travelers."

As with carry-ons, checked baggage is subject to limits. Some airlines permit one or two checked bags at no charge; other carriers charge for even one checked bag. There can also be an extra charge if you exceed the airline's limits on the size, weight or number of the bags.

On some flights between two foreign cities, your allowance may be lower and may be based primarily on the weight of the checked bags rather than the number of pieces. The same two bags that cost you nothing to check when you started your trip could result in expensive excess-baggage charges under a weight system. Ask the airlines about the limit for every segment of your international trip before you leave home, especially if you have a stopover of a day or two or if you are changing carriers.

The bags you check should be labeled ? inside and out ? with your name and phone number. Add the name and phone number of a person to contact at your destination if it's practical to do so. Almost all of the bags that are misplaced by airlines do turn up sooner or later. With proper labeling, the bag and its owner can usually be reunited within a few hours.

Don't overpack a bag. This puts pressure on the latches, making it easier for them to pop open. If you plan to check any glassware, musical instruments or other fragile items, they should be packed in a container specifically designed to survive rough handling, preferably a factory-sealed carton or a padded hard-shell carrying case.

Don't check in at the last minute. Even if you make the flight, your bag may not. If you miss the airline's check-in deadline, the carrier might not assume liability for your bag if it is delayed or lost. If you have a choice, select flights that minimize the potential for baggage disruption. The likelihood of a bag going astray increases from #1 to #4 below (i.e., #1 is safest): 1) nonstop flight; 2) direct or 'through' flight (one or more stops, but no change of aircraft); 3) online connection (change of aircraft but not airlines); and 4) interline connection (change of aircraft and airlines)

When you check in, remove straps and hooks from garment bags that you are sending as checked baggage. These can get caught in baggage processing machinery, causing damage to the bag.

The airline will put baggage destination tags on your luggage and give you the stubs to use as claim checks. Make sure you get a stub for every bag. Don't throw them away until after you get your bags back and you check the contents. Not only will you need them if a claim is necessary, but you may need to show them to security upon leaving the baggage-claim area.

Your bags may only be checked to one of your intermediate stops rather than your destination city if you must clear Customs short of your final destination, or if you are taking a connection involving two airlines that don't have an interline agreement. Be sure all of the tags from previous trips are removed from your bag, since they may cause your bag to go astray.

Claiming your bags

Many bags look alike. After you pull what you think is your bag off the carousel, check the name tag or the bag tag number. If your bag arrives open, unlocked or visibly damaged, check right away to see if any of the contents are missing or damaged. Report any problems to the airline before leaving the airport; insist on having a report created. Open your suitcase immediately when you get to where you are staying. Any damage to the contents or any pilferage should be immediately reported to the airline by telephone. Make a note of the date and time of the call, and the name and telephone number of the person you spoke with. Follow up as soon as possible with a certified letter to the airline.

If your suitcase arrives smashed or torn, the airline will usually pay for repairs. If it can't be fixed, they will negotiate a settlement to pay you its depreciated value. The same holds true for belongings packed inside. Airlines may decline to pay for damage caused by the fragile nature of the broken item or inadequate packing, rather than the airline's rough handling. Air carriers might also refuse to compensate you for damaged items inside the bag when there's no evidence of external damage to the suitcase. When you check in, airline personnel may let you know if they think your suitcase or package may not survive the trip intact. Before accepting a questionable item, they may ask you to sign a statement in which you agree to check it at your own risk. But even if you do sign this form, the airline might be liable for damage if it is caused by its own negligence shown by external injury to the suitcase or package.

Delayed bags

If you and your suitcase don't connect at your destination, don't panic. The airlines have very sophisticated systems that track down the vast majority of misplaced bags and return them to their owners within hours. In many cases they will absorb reasonable expenses you incur while they look for your missing belongings. You and the airline may have different ideas of what's reasonable, however, and the amount it will pay is subject to negotiation.

If your bags don't come off the conveyor belt, report this to airline personnel before you leave the airport. Insist that they create a report and give you a copy, even if they say the bag will be in on the next flight. Get an appropriate phone number for following up (not the Reservations number). Don't assume that the airline will deliver the bag without charge when it is found; ask the airline about this. Most carriers set guidelines for their airport employees that allow them to disburse some money at the airport for emergency purchases. The amount depends on whether or not you're away from home and how long it takes to track down your bags and return them to you. If the airline does not provide you a cash advance, it may still reimburse you later for the purchase of necessities. Discuss with the carrier the types of articles that would be reimbursable, and keep all receipts. If the airline misplaces sporting equipment, it will sometimes pay for the rental of replacements. For replacement clothing or other articles, the carrier might offer to absorb only a portion of the purchase cost, on the basis that you will be able to use the new items in the future. (The airline may agree to a higher reimbursement if you turn the articles over to them.)

When you've checked in fresh foods or any other perishable goods and they are ruined because their delivery is delayed, the airline won't reimburse you. Carriers may be liable if they lose or damage perishable items, but they won't accept responsibility for spoilage caused by a delay in delivery.

Airlines are liable for provable consequential damages up to the amount of their liability limit (see below) in connection with the delay. If you can't resolve the claim with the airline's airport staff, keep a record of the names of the employees with whom you dealt, and hold on to all travel documents and receipts for any money you spent in connection with the mishandling. (It's okay to surrender your baggage claim tags to the airline when you fill out a form at the airport, as long as you get a copy of the form and it notes that you gave up the tags.) Contact the airline's baggage claims office or consumer office when you get home.

Lost luggage

Once your bag is declared (permanently) lost, you will have to submit a claim. This usually means you have to fill out a second, more detailed form. Check on this; failure to complete the second form when required could delay your claim. Missing the deadline for filing it could invalidate your claim altogether.

The airline will usually refer your claim to a central office, and the negotiations between you and the airline will begin. If your flight was a connection involving two carriers, the final carrier is normally the one responsible for processing your claim even if it appears that the first airline lost the bag. Airlines don't automatically pay the full amount of every claim they receive. First, they will use the information on your form to estimate the value of your lost belongings. Like insurance companies, airlines consider the depreciated value of your possessions, not their original price or the replacement costs. If you're tempted to exaggerate your claim, don't. Airlines may completely deny claims they feel are inflated or fraudulent. They often ask for sales receipts and other documentation to back up claims, especially if a large amount of money is involved. If you don't keep extensive records, you can expect to negotiate with the airline over the value of your goods. Generally, it takes an airline anywhere from four weeks to three months to pay passengers for their lost luggage. When airlines tender a settlement, they may offer you the option of free tickets on future flights in a higher amount than the cash payment. Ask about all restrictions on these tickets, such as "blackout" periods.

Limits on liability

Airlines assert a limit on their liability for delayed, lost or damaged checked baggage.  When your luggage and its contents are worth more than the liability limit, you may want to purchase "excess valuation," if available, from the airline as you check in. This is not insurance, but it will increase the carrier's potential liability. The airline may refuse to sell excess valuation on some items that are especially valuable or breakable, such as antiques, musical instruments, jewelry, manuscripts, negotiable securities and cash.

On domestic trips, the airline can invoke a liability ceiling that is regulated by DOT and that is adjusted for inflation every two years. That limit is currently $3,800 per passenger.

On international round trips that originate in the United States, the liability limit is set by a treaty called the Montreal Convention. This treaty also governs liability on international round trips that originate in another country that has ratified this Convention, and one-way trips between the U.S. and such a country. This international limit is reviewed for inflationary adjustment every five years; it is currently 1,288  Special Drawing Rights .  The SDR is a currency surrogate that floats daily; check with the  International Monetary Fund (IMF)  to see the current exchange rate.  At this writing 1,288 SDRs was worth about $1,780.  The international limit applies to domestic segments of an international journey.  In certain very limited circumstances, this may be the case even if the domestic and international flights are on separate tickets and you claim and re-check your bag between the two flights.

Keep in mind that the liability limits are maximums. If the depreciated value of your property is worth less than the liability limit, this lower amount is what you will be offered. If the airline's settlement doesn't fully reimburse your loss, check your homeowner's or renter's insurance; it sometimes covers losses away from the residence. Some credit card companies and travel agencies offer optional or even automatic supplemental baggage coverage.

Special liability requirements apply to the domestic transportation of assistive devices used by passengers with disabilities.  For more information, read our  page about wheelchairs and assistive devices  or the publication  New Horizons: Information for the Air Traveler with a Disability .

Hazardous Items

There are restrictions on carrying materials that could be hazardous in an aircraft environment.  For example, matches are not permitted in checked bags.  For details on hazardous materials, go to  www.faa.gov  >> Travelers, and  www.tsa.gov  >> Travelers.

Under U.S. government rules, smoking is prohibited on all scheduled-service flights of U.S. airlines. As a general matter, foreign airlines must also ban smoking on all scheduled-service flight segments in, to and from the United States. Cigar and pipe smoking is banned on all U.S.-carrier flights (both scheduled and charter).

On flights where smoking is not banned by law (e.g., charter flights), airlines must have a non-smoking section and must accommodate in that section every passenger who has complied with the airline’s check-in deadline and who wishes to be seated there.  On these flights, carriers are not required to have a smoking section. An airline is free to ban smoking on a particular flight, or on all of its flights.

None of the regulations described in this chapter apply to charter flights performed with small aircraft by on-demand air taxi operators.

The Air Carrier Access Act and the DOT rule that implements it set out procedures designed to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the same opportunity as anyone else to enjoy a pleasant flight. For information about these provisions, see the DOT publication  New Horizons: Information for the Air Traveler With a Disability . 

Frequent-Traveler Programs

Most if not all major airlines participate in frequent-traveler plans. These programs allow you to earn free trips, upgrades (e.g., from Coach to First Class) or other awards based on how often you fly on that airline or its partner carriers. In most programs you can also earn credit by using specified hotels, rental car companies, credit cards, etc. It doesn't cost anything to join a program, and you can enroll in the programs of any number of different airlines. However, you will want to determine which program best suits your needs before you accumulate a lot of miles. Here are some things to look at when selecting a frequent-traveler program.

• Does the airline fly where you're likely to want to go?
• Are there tie-ins with other carriers, especially those with international routes? Is some of the airline's service provided by commuter-carrier "partners"? In both cases, can you earn credits and use awards on those other airlines?
• How many miles (or trips) are required for particular awards?
• Is there a minimum award per flight (e.g., you are only flying 200 miles but the airline always awards at least 500)?
• Is there a deadline for using accumulated miles?
• Carefully examine the number and length of any "blackout periods" during which awards cannot be used. For example, on some carriers the Thanksgiving blackout may last a week.
• If you are planning a big trip involving air travel and are thinking about joining that airline's frequent-flyer program, enroll before you travel. Airlines usually won't credit mileage that was flown before you became a member.

After you join a program, there are other things that you should know:

• Airlines reserve the right to make changes to their programs, sometimes on short notice. The number of miles required for particular awards might be raised, requiring you to use your old mileage (i.e., your current balance) under the more restrictive new rules. The airline may cease service on a route that you were particularly interested in, or it may even stop serving the city you live in. The carrier may eliminate attractive frequent-flyer tie-ins with particular airlines or hotel chains.
• Cashing in your mileage frequently will limit your losses in case the carrier changes the rules, merges, or goes out of business. Accumulating a larger mileage balance will entitle you to bigger awards, however.
• Carriers often limit the number of seats on each flight for which frequent-flyer awards can be used. You may not be able to get reservations on your first- or second-choice dates or flights.
• Awards can often be issued in the name of immediate family members. However, if you sell or give an award to someone not named on the award or the travel document and the airline finds out, the recipient could have his or her ticket confiscated, and the carrier may penalize the program member's account balance.
• Ask the airline how mileage is registered; you will probably have to identify yourself as a program member when you book your flight or when you check in.
• Keep your ticket (or email confirmation) and your boarding passes until you receive a statement from the frequent-flyer program reflecting the correct mileage earnings for that trip. If a problem arises, get the names of the people you speak with and keep notes of your conversations.

Throughout this booklet, we have tried to provide you general information about airline travel. It is important to realize, however, that each airline has specific rules that make up your contract of carriage. These rules may differ among carriers. They include provisions such as check-in deadlines, refund procedures, responsibility for delayed flights, and many other things.

Domestic Travel

For domestic travel, an airline may provide all of its contract terms on or with your ticket at the time you buy it. Some small "commuter" carriers use this system. Other airlines may elect to "incorporate terms by reference." This means that you are not given all the airline's rules with your ticket - most of them are contained in a separate document which you can inspect on request or on the airline’s web site. If an airline elects to "incorporate by reference" it must provide conspicuous written notice with each ticket that: 1) it incorporates terms by reference, and 2) these terms may include liability limitations, claim-filing deadlines, check-in deadlines, and certain other key terms. The airline must also:

• Ensure that passengers can receive an explanation of key terms identified on the ticket from any location where the carrier's tickets are sold, including travel agencies;
• Make available for inspection the full text of its contract of carriage at each of its own airport and city ticket offices;
• Mail a free copy of the full text of its contract of carriage upon request.

DOT also requires most U.S.airlines to post their contracts of carriage on their web site, if they have one.

There are additional notice requirements for contract terms that affect your air fare. Airlines must provide a conspicuous written notice on or with the ticket concerning any "incorporated" contract terms that restrict refunds, impose monetary penalties, or permit the airline to raise the price after you've bought the ticket.

If an airline incorporates contract terms by reference and fails to provide you the required notice about a particular rule, you will not be bound by that rule. In addition, a DOT rule prohibits airlines from changing a term in your contract after you buy your ticket if the change will have a significant negative effect on you.

International Travel

Not all of the detailed requirements for disclosing domestic contract terms apply to international travel. Where they do not, the airline must keep a copy of its "tariff" rules at its airport and city ticket offices. On flights to or from the U.S., you have a right to examine these rules.

The most important point to remember, whether your travel is domestic or international, is that you should not be afraid to ask questions about a carrier's rules. You have a right to know the terms of your contract of carriage. It is in your best interest, as well as that of the airline, for you to ask in advance about any matters of uncertainty.  

Unlike most products, travel services usually have to be paid for before they are delivered. This creates opportunities for disreputable individuals and companies. Some travel packages turn out to be very different from what was presented or what the consumer expected. Some don't materialize at all! If you receive an offer by phone or mail for a free or extremely low-priced vacation trip to a popular destination (often Hawaii or Florida), there are a few things you should look for:

• Does the price seem too good to be true? If so, it probably is.
• Are you pressured to make an immediate decision?
• Is the carrier simply identified as "a major airline," or does the representative offer a collection of airlines without being able to say which one you will be on?
• Is the representative unable or unwilling to give you a street address for the company?
• Are you told you can't leave for at least two months? (The legal deadline for disputing a credit card charge is 60 days, and most scam artists know this.)

If you encounter any of these symptoms, proceed cautiously. Ask for written information to be sent to you; any legitimate travel company will be happy to oblige. If they don't have a brochure, ask for a day or two to think it over; most bona fide deals that are good today will still be good two days from now. If they say no to both requests, this probably isn't the trip for you. Some other advice:

• If you are told that you've won a free vacation, ask if you have to buy something else in order to get it. Some packages have promoted free air fare, as long as you buy expensive hotel arrangements. Others include a free hotel stay, but no air fare.
• If you are seriously considering the vacation offer and are confident you have established the full price you will pay, compare the offer to what you might obtain elsewhere. Frequently, the appeal of free air fare or free accommodations disguises the fact that the total price is still higher than that of a regular package tour.
• Get a confirmed departure date, in writing, before you pay anything. Eye skeptically any promises that an acceptable date will be arranged later. If the package involves standby or waitlist travel, or a reservation that can only be provided much later, ask if your payment is refundable if you want to cancel, and don't pay any money you can't afford to lose.
• If the destination is a beach resort, ask the seller how far the hotel is from the beach. Then ask the hotel.
• Determine the complete cost of the trip in dollars, including all service charges, taxes, processing fees, etc.
• If you decide to buy the trip after checking it out, paying by credit card gives you certain legal rights to pursue a chargeback (credit) if promised services aren't delivered.

For further advice, see "Other Sources of Information" at the end of this brochure for details on how to order the Federal Trade Commission's pamphlet Telemarketing Travel Fraud.

Flying is a routine activity for millions of Americans, and raises no health considerations for the great majority of them. However, there are certain things you can do to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible. Changes in pressure can temporarily block the Eustachian tube, causing your ears to 'pop' or to experience a sensation of fullness. To equalize the pressure, swallow frequently; chewing gum sometimes helps. Yawning is also effective. Avoid sleeping during descent; you may not swallow often enough to keep ahead of the pressure change.

Babies are especially troubled by these pressure changes during descent. Having them feed from a bottle or suck on a pacifier will often provide relief. Avoid flying if you have recently had abdominal, eye or oral surgery, including a root canal. The pressure changes that occur during climb and descent can result in discomfort. If you have an upper respiratory or sinus infection, you may also experience discomfort resulting from pressure changes. Postpone your trip if possible. (Check to see if your fare has cancellation or change penalties.) A final tip on pressure changes: they cause your feet to swell. Try not to wear new or tight shoes while flying.

Alcohol and coffee both have a drying effect on the body. Airliner cabin air is relatively dry to begin with, and the combination can increase your chances of contracting a respiratory infection. If you wear contact lenses, the low cabin humidity and/or consumption of alcohol or coffee can reduce your tear volume, leading to discomfort if you don't blink often enough. Lens wearers should clean their lenses thoroughly before the flight, use lubricating eye drops during the flight, read in intervals, and take the lenses out if they nap. (This may not apply to extended wear lenses; consult your practitioner.) If you take prescription medications, bring enough to last through your trip. Take along a copy of the prescription, or your doctor's name and telephone number, in case the medication is lost or stolen. The medicine should be in the original prescription bottle in order to avoid questions at security or Customs inspections. Carry it in a pocket or a carry-on bag; don't pack it in a checked bag, in case the bag is lost.

You can minimize the effects of jet lag in several ways:

Get several good nights' sleep before your trip.

Try to take a flight that arrives at night, so you can go straight to bed.

Sleep on the plane (although not during descent).

During the flight do isometric exercises, eat lightly, and drink little or no alcohol.

A condition known as Deep Venous Thrombosis can occur in some people who don’t exercise their legs for several hours ? for example, during an airline flight. Consider walking up and down the aisle once or twice, and search the web for exercises that you can do at your seat to minimize the risk of developing this condition during a flight.

Try to use a rest room in the airport terminal before departure. On some flights the cabin crew begins beverage service shortly after the "Fasten Seat Belts" sign is turned off, and the serving cart may block access to the lavatories.

Air travel is so safe you'll probably never have to use any of the advice we're about to give you. But if you ever do need it, this information could save your life. Airline passengers usually take safety for granted when they board an airplane. They tune out the crew's pre-flight announcements or reach for a magazine instead of the cards that show how to open the emergency exit and what to do if the oxygen mask drops down. Because of this, people may be needlessly hurt or killed in accidents they could survive. Every time you board a plane, here are some things you should do:

Carry-on bags must be properly stowed in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you. Be careful about what you put into the storage bins over your seat. Their doors may pop open during an accident or even a hard landing, spilling their contents. Also, passengers in aisle seats have been injured by heavy items falling out of these compartments when people are stowing or retrieving belongings at the beginning or end of a flight.

As soon as you sit down, fasten and unfasten your seat belt a couple of times. Watch how it works. In an emergency you don't want to waste time fumbling with the buckle.

Before take-off, there will be a briefing about safety procedures, pointing out emergency exits and explaining seat belts, life vests and oxygen masks. Listen carefully and if there's anything you don't understand ask the flight attendants for help.

The plastic card in the seat pocket in front of you will review some of the safety information announced by the flight attendant. Read it. It also tells you about emergency exits and how to find and use emergency equipment such as oxygen masks. As you're reading the card look for your closest emergency exit, and count the number of rows between yourself and this exit. Remember, the closest exit may be behind you. Have a second escape route planned in case the nearest exit is blocked. This is important because people sometimes head for the door they used to board the plane, usually in the front of the first class cabin. This wastes time and blocks the aisles. If the oxygen masks should drop, you must tug the plastic tube slightly to get the oxygen flowing. If you don't understand the instructions about how the mask works, ask a flight attendant to explain them to you.

When the plane is safely in the air, the pilot usually turns off the "fasten seat belt" sign. He or she usually suggests that passengers keep their belts buckled anyway during the flight in case the plane hits rough air. This is a good idea; there have been a number of instances of unexpected turbulence in which unbelted passengers were seriously injured and even killed when they were thrown about the cabin. Just as seat belts should always be worn in cars, in airplanes they should always be fastened when you are in your seat.

If you are ever in an aviation accident, you should remember these things:

Listen to the crew members and do what they say. The cabin crew's most important job is to help you evacuate safely.

Before you try to open any emergency exit yourself, look outside the window. If you see a fire outside the door, don't open it or the flames may spread into the cabin. Try to use your alternate escape route.

Remember, smoke rises. So try to stay down if there's smoke in the cabin. Follow the track of emergency lights embedded in the floor; they lead to an exit. If you have a cloth, put it over your nose and mouth.

After an air accident, the National Transportation Safety Board always talks to survivors to try to learn why they were able to make it through safely. They've discovered that, as a rule, it does help to be prepared. Avoiding serious injury or surviving an air accident isn't just a matter of luck; it's also a matter of being informed and thinking ahead.

Are you one of those people who jumps up while the aircraft is still taxiing, gathers up coat, suitcase and briefcase, and gets ready to sprint? If so, resist the urge. Planes sometimes make sudden stops when they are taxiing to the airport gate, and passengers have been injured when they were thrown onto a seat back or the edge of a door of an overhead bin. Stay in your seat with your belt buckled until the plane comes to a complete halt and the 'fasten seat belt' sign is turned off.

Never smoke in airplane restrooms. Smoking was banned there after an accident killed 116 people in only 4 minutes, apparently because a careless smoker left a burning cigarette butt in the trash bin. There is a steep fine for disabling a lavatory smoke detector.

Security procedures are administered by the Transportation Security Administration, an agency of the Department of Homeland Security.  For more information, go to  www.tsa.gov  and click "For Travelers."  Note in particular the identification provisions, and restrictions concerning carry-on baggage (particularly the "3-1-1" procedure for liquids and gels in carry-on bags), and the list of prohibited items.  At this writing, cabin baggage is generally limited to one carry-on bag plus one personal item (e.g. purse, briefcase, camera bag, laptop computer). 

DOT rules require U.S. airlines to provide information on how to file a complaint with the carrier. This information must appear on their web sites, on all e-ticket confirmations, and upon request at any of the airline’s ticket counters or gates. When passengers comment on airline service, most airlines do listen. They track and analyze the complaints and compliments they receive and use the information to determine what the public wants and to identify problem areas that need attention. They also try to resolve individual complaints. A DOT rule requires that airlines acknowledge a written complaint within 30 days and send a substantive response within 60 days of receiving the complaint.

Like other businesses, airlines have a lot of discretion in how they respond to problems. While you do have certain rights as a passenger, your demands for compensation will probably be subject to negotiation and the kind of action you get often depends in large part on the way you go about complaining. Start with the airline. Before you contact DOT for help with an air travel problem, you should give the airline a chance to resolve it. As a rule, airlines have trouble-shooters at the airports (they're usually called Customer Service Representatives) who can take care of many problems on the spot. They can often arrange meals and hotel rooms for stranded passengers, write checks for denied boarding compensation, arrange luggage resolutions, and settle other routine claims or complaints

If you can't resolve the problem at the airport and want to file a complaint, it's best to write or email the airline's consumer office at its corporate headquarters. DOT requires most U.S. airlines to state on their web sites how and where complaints can be submitted. There may be a form on the airline’s web site for this purpose. Take notes at the time the incident occurred and jot down the names of the carrier employees with whom you dealt. Keep all of your travel documents (ticket or confirmation, baggage check stubs, boarding pass, etc.) as well as receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses that were incurred as a result of the mishandling. Here are some helpful tips should you choose to write.

• If you send a letter, type it and, if at all possible, limit it to two pages.
• Include your daytime telephone number (with area code).
• No matter how angry you might be, keep your letter or email businesslike in tone and don't exaggerate what happened. If the complaint sounds very vehement or sarcastic, you might wait a day and then consider revising it.
• Describe what happened, and give dates, cities, and flight numbers or flight times.
• Where possible, include copies, never the originals, of tickets and receipts or other documents that can back up your claim.
• Include the names of any employees who were rude or made things worse, as well as anyone who might have been especially helpful.
• Don't clutter your complaint with a litany of petty gripes that can obscure what you're really angry about.
• Let the airline know if you've suffered any special inconvenience or monetary losses.
• Say just what you expect the carrier to do to make amends. An airline may offer to settle your claim with a check or some other kind of compensation, possibly free transportation. You might want a written apology from a rude employee or reimbursement for some loss you incurred ? but the airline needs to know what you want before it can decide what action to take.
• Be reasonable. If your demands are way out of line, you are rude or sarcastic, or you use vulgar language, at best your letter might earn you a polite apology and a place in the airline's crank files.

If you follow these guidelines, the airlines will probably treat your complaint seriously. Your letter will help them to determine what caused your problem, as well as to suggest actions the company can take to keep the same thing from happening to other people.

Contacting the Department of Transportation (DOT)

Complaints about airline service may be registered with DOT's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection. You can call, write or use our web-based complaint form .

You may contact DOT by phone at 202-366-2220 for information related to a consumer related problem.  Please know that in order for a case to be processed as a complaint, it must be submitted in writing. You may send DOT correspondence by mail at the address below:

Office of Aviation Consumer Protection U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590

When mailing a letter, please include your full address and phone number as well as complete and accurate information about your trip and the problem you had or are having.

To send us a complaint, comment or inquiry electronically, please use our web form .

Complaints from consumers help us spot problem areas and trends in the airline industry. We use our complaint files to document the need for changes in DOT's consumer protection regulations and, where warranted, as the basis for enforcement action (i.e., where a serious breach of the law has occurred). In addition, every month we publish a report with information about the number of complaints we receive about each airline and what problems people are having. You can find this Air Travel Consumer Report on our web site.  That publication also has statistics that the airlines file with us on flight delays, oversales and mishandled baggage.

If your complaint is about something you feel is a safety hazard, write to the Federal Aviation Administration at:

Or call 1-866-TELL-FAA (1-866-835-5322).

Questions or concerns about aviation security should be directed to the  Transportation Security Administration :

Phone (toll-free): 1-866-289-9673

E-mail:  [email protected]

Or write to:

Your Last Resort

If nothing else works, small claims court might be the best way for you to help yourself. Many localities have these courts to settle disputes involving relatively small amounts of money and to reduce the red tape and expense that people generally fear when they sue someone. An airline can generally be sued in small claims court in any jurisdiction where it operates flights or does business. You can usually get the details of how to use the small claims court in your community by contacting your city or county office of consumer affairs, or the clerk of the court. As a rule, small claims court costs are low, you don't need a lawyer, and the procedures are much less formal and intimidating than they are in most other types of courts. See the DOT publication  Tell It to the Judge .

Update April 12, 2024

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Almost a million individuals enter the U.S. daily. Everyone arriving at a port of entry to the U.S. is subject to inspection by Customs and Border Protection officers for compliance with immigration, customs and agriculture regulations. The more international travelers know about what to expect, the easier and quicker the process becomes.  

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International travel

Prepare for your trip

International travel doesn’t have to be tricky – just follow these steps to help you prepare for your trip.

We recommend you:

• Check if your destination has travel restrictions and entry requirements
• Come prepared with travel documents and required paperwork
• Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure time
• Documents and requirements you need to travel Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Travel and health restrictions by destination Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Travel often?

If you travel often, skip the paperwork and lines with:

• Global Entry
• TSA PreCheck
• Mobile Passport Control Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Travel documents and requirements

You’re responsible to make sure you have the correct documents to enter and pass through any countries during your trip, and then make your way back home. If you don’t have the required documentation and identification, you will not be allowed to board the plane and would be responsible for any resulting costs.

Keep in mind:

• Everyone traveling, regardless of age, needs their own set of travel documents.
• Always use the information exactly as it appears on your passport (to book and fill out any documents).
• Check with the consulate of every country you’re entering (or passing through) to make sure you meet all travel requirements.
• Some countries require proof of return or onward travel, a visiting address and sufficient funds for your stay.

All children, regardless of age, must have a passport and any travel documents required by the countries visited. If you’re traveling internationally with anyone under 18, you may be required to show documentary evidence of your relationship and a Letter of Consent or permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present.

Traveling with children

A passport is required for all international travel. If you're traveling anywhere overseas, you need a passport to board an international flight and to enter the country. Passport cards will not be accepted as form of I.D. for international air travel.

• Some countries require your passport to be issued at least 6 months before the day you arrive. Check your destination’s requirements if you’re unsure.
• Passports must be kept in good condition, free of any damage beyond normal wear and tear, and material alterations. You may be denied boarding if you travel with a passport that appears damaged or altered.

U.S. citizens can use any government-issued form of identification to travel between the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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In addition to a passport, some countries require a visa to enter. If you’re traveling to the U.S. for a stay less than 90 days, the Department of Homeland Security requires eligible travelers to use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), as part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). You must submit your application no later than 72 hours before departing for the U.S., but we suggest you apply for authorization when you start planning your trip. You will be denied boarding if you arrive at the airport without an approved ESTA.

An approved ESTA travel authorization is:

• Valid for up to 2 years or your passport expires, whichever comes first
• Valid for multiple entries into the U.S.
• Not a guarantee of admissibility to the U.S., approval only authorizes you to board a carrier for travel to the U.S.

To enter the U.S. under the VWP, each passenger must have a machine-readable passport. If you don’t have a machine-readable zone, a valid visa is required.

Each passenger traveling to the U.S. under the VWP must have a:

• Valid electronic (e-Passport) with this symbol on the passport cover

If you present a non-electronic passport, a valid U.S. visa will be required or you’ll be denied boarding and entry into the U.S.

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Contact tracing for flights to the U.S.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requires all passengers flying to the United States to provide their contact information within 72 hours of departure. This information may be used by public health officials to follow up with passengers who may have been exposed to a contagious disease during travel.

• Read more information about the CDC contact tracing requirement Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.
• Submit your contact tracing information

Additional requirements

Some countries have additional requirements for travel, so we recommend that you check the U.S. Department of State website for the latest information and sign up for their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

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Travelers flying to Australia from certain countries, including the U.S., will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for entry.

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Brazil has postponed requiring an eVisa for U.S., Canadian and Australian citizens until April 2025.

All visa-exempt foreign travelers who fly to, or transit through Canada now need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). The authorization is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and is valid for 5 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

U.S. citizens and travelers with a valid Canadian visa are exempt from this eTA requirement.

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Under the VWP, Nationals of Chile traveling to the U.S. are required to have an E-passport in addition to a machine-readable passport.

All travelers entering Cuba will need to prepare additional information including a visa and health insurance.

Travel to Cuba

Travelers flying to Curaçao will need to complete a digital embarkation/disembarkation card (ED Card) prior to their trip.

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If you are a permanent resident of Australia or travelling on a passport from a visa waiver country, you'll need an New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). Some visitors and transit passengers can travel to New Zealand without a visa if they get an NZeTA before their trip.

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Customers traveling to or from Peru with amounts of cash exceeding $10,000 USD or its equivalent in local or foreign currency are legally responsible for declaring such amount at airport controls to avoid sanctions and up to the confiscation of the undeclared amount, as per Article 4 of Supreme Decree 195-2013-EF.

Additionally, it is prohibited entering or leaving the country with amounts over $30,000 USD or its equivalent in local or foreign currency.

Health and testing requirements

To travel, vaccinations may be required depending on where you’re traveling to and from.

Travel information from the CDC Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

• You must declare all personal medication on your arrival card.
• You must carry medical documentation to defend use of the medication.
• If you need to use syringe during your flight, you will also need a doctor's letter proving there's a medical reason to use it onboard.
• If you don't have proper documentation the medications may be confiscated.

When traveling to Nicaragua, a Yellow Fever shot will be required if you departed from or connected through any of these countries in the last 30 days:

• French Guiana
• Any country in Africa

Chemical sprays on international flights

Flights to and from certain countries require insecticide treatment (a process known as disinsection) inside the cabin for insect and disease control. The U.S. Department of Transportation provides full information about the spray and the countries required to use it.

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Your checked and carry-on bags may be sprayed or misted with a solution upon arrival due to local health protocols for virus and disease control. This action is performed by local authorities and not American Airlines.

Tax exemptions

You may be entitled to a refund of some taxes included in the price of your ticket if you meet the applicable criteria for exemptions and your itinerary involves:

• Travel between the U.S. and Mexico (including travel between Canada and Mexico via the U.S.)
• International travel departing Belize, Colombia or Trinidad and Tobago
• International travel arriving into Colombia

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Learn about regulations and procedures that apply to all travelers that enter or depart the United States.

Travel tips Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

To enhance border security, passenger information will be passed through the Advanced Passenger Information (API) system and sent to U.S. Customs and Border Protection to review passenger information before the flight arrives.

• All international flights arriving and departing the U.S. are required by law to provide API data.
• API data for American Airlines/American Eagle flights is also transmitted to Customs and Immigration agencies in other countries where required by law.
• The information sharing is mandatory as part of the U.S. Aviation and Transportation Security Act.

All visitors to the U.S., except nationals of Canada, will have their photograph and fingerprints taken, and will automatically be registered under the Visit the U.S. program when they pass through Customs and Border Protection.

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Secure Flight Passenger Data is basic personal information the TSA requires for you to travel. The information is collected during booking or ticketing.

TSA Secure Flight

Flying on one of our partners?

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The Ultimate Guide to Rechecking Luggage on Connecting Flights

U nderstanding whether you'll need to pick up your checked luggage during a connection can be difficult, especially if you're new to flying. That's because sometimes you'll need to collect your bags, and other times your baggage will automatically be transferred.

There are many factors that influence this, like whether you're connecting in a different country, whether that country requires all incoming passengers to recheck their bags, whether you purchased both legs of the flight on a single ticket, and whether both airlines have interline agreements.

In this article, we'll explain what happens to your luggage during connecting flights, so you can understand in which layovers you'll need to recheck your bag, and in which ones your bag will transfer automatically.

Quick Guide: Will I Need to Pick Up (Recheck) My Luggage on a Connecting Flight?

• Domestic flights + single ticket: Your checked luggage will be transferred automatically, even if flying with different airlines
• Domestic flights + booked separately: Your checked luggage will most likely need to be rechecked* unless both airlines you'll be flying with have an interline agreement
• International flights + single ticket: There's a 70/30 chance that your luggage will be transferred automatically, even with different airlines, depending on which country/ies you're flying to
• International flights + booked separately: You most likely will need to recheck your checked bag at every connection

*Rechecking luggage means picking up/collecting your checked bag at the connecting airport, going through customs and immigration, and then checking it in again for the next flight.

Tip: Make Sure to Check the Label on Your Checked Luggage

When you're checking in your bag at the check-in counter, look at the label that the airline employee attaches to your bag. It will say where the bag is headed to. If it's headed to the layover country/airport, you'll need to recheck your bags there. If it's headed to the final destination, you won't need to recheck your bags. This is the most accurate way of knowing whether you'll need to recheck your bags or not.

If you aren't sure, you can just ask the employee at the check-in counter or call up the airline before heading to the airport. Some airlines will also let you short-check your bags if you ask, which basically means that you will need to recheck your bags. This is useful if you want to access your checked bag during the layover.

When Your Luggage Will Be Transferred Automatically on Connecting International Flights

1. both flights are booked on the same ticket.

If you’re traveling from one destination to another, but you have a stopover along the way, and both your flights are on the same ticket (meaning, you purchased them in a single purchase, most likely through a broker), your bags will probably be checked to the final destination.

This means you don’t have to worry about collecting your baggage from the luggage carousel and having to check it in all over again. You can just sit down, relax, and enjoy the trip.

2. The Flights Are Booked With Different Airlines, but Both Airlines Have an Interline Agreement

An interline agreement is an agreement between two airlines that decide to form a partnership. It simply provides a way for passengers to book itineraries on multiple airlines (including trips with layovers) without the hassle of booking each one separately. So for instance, if you'd book a flight on American airlines to an airport where American Airlines doesn't operate, they'd most likely offer you a flight with a stopover somewhere, where the first or the second flight would be operated by American Airlines and the other one by a partnering airline, let's say Delta or United.

If two airlines have an interline agreement in place, it means that the airline which operates the first leg of the flight will automatically recheck luggage to the partnering airline. This means that travelers who book tickets with airlines that have an existing interline agreement only need to check in once for all the flights on their itinerary and their luggage will automatically be transferred to the second airline.

So how do you find out if both airlines have interline agreements? Well, if you booked both flights on the same website and they're on the same ticket, then they have an interline agreement. But other than that, there's really no simple way to tell, other than Googling both airlines + "interline agreement" and doing all the research yourself.

Sometimes, even on two flights with different airlines that were booked separately, checked luggage will automatically get transferred to the final destination because both airlines had interline agreements that you didn't know about.

When You'll Need to Pick Up (Recheck) Your baggage on Connecting International Flights

1. each flight is booked separately and the airlines don’t have an interline agreement.

If you are flying on different carriers with different tickets (meaning, each flight was booked separately), then there is a high probability that your luggage won’t be transferred automatically and you’ll have to do it yourself. Aside from experiencing a slight inconvenience, it isn’t actually that difficult to recheck the luggage yourself.

If the layover is pretty long (3 hours or more), then you might not be able to check it right away as the check-in counter might still be closed. If that’s the case, you can explore the airport or grab a quick snack.

Once the check-in counter opens, all you have to do is drop off your bags, pick up your boarding pass, go through the security, and wait to board the plane at the gate — pretty much identical to how you boarded your first flight.

2. The Connection Country Requires You to Go Through Customs

If you’re on an international trip and the country of the layover requires you to go through customs, you’ll need to exit the plane, collect your luggage, go through customs, and then check in your luggage all over again. It’s a little bit of a hassle, especially since you just want to relax before your next flight, but it’s a requirement so there’s no escaping it.

This requirement exists because some countries want to make sure that all incoming passengers aren't bringing anything illegal. Even ones who won't step out of the airport and are there just for a quick layover. This means that you need to do some research to find out what kinds of items are illegal in that country. For instance, most countries won't allow bringing any plants, fruit, vegetables, meats, eggs, specific types of knives, and some dangerous goods. Your checked bag will be scanned for these items when going through customs and immigration.

For instance, if you're flying internationally and you're arriving in the US with a connecting flight to a different location in the US, you'll have to recheck your bags the first time you land in the US. Each country has different rules though.

Here are some countries that require arriving passengers to recheck their luggage upon first landing, even if it's just a connection:

• The United States
• Europe (All EU countries are considered a single unity in this regard, so only when entering and exiting the EU)
• The Philippines

3. The Next Airport in Your Itinerary Doesn’t Have Customs Facilities

Sometimes, especially when flying to less-popular airports, you'll need to recheck your bag in your last connection. This happens only if the last airport you'll be arriving at doesn't have customs facilities, so you'll be required to go through them at the previous airport.

For instance, if you were flying New York (USA)  – Amsterdam (Netherlands) – Girona  (a  Smaller Spanish airport without customs near Barcelona ), you’d have to re-check your bag in  Amsterdam , because  Girona  doesn’t have customs facilities. If, however, you’d be flying  New York (USA) – Amsterdam (Netherlands) – Barcelona (Spain) , you wouldn’t have to re-check your bags at  Amsterdam , because  Barcelona  has customs facilities.

(Guide) How to Recheck Your Luggage During Layover

If your baggage isn't automatically transferred, picking it up at the layover country and then rechecking it back in isn't that hard. Here's how the process usually goes:

• When you arrive at the layover destination, you'll have to pick up your checked bag inside the airport at a designated area. You won't be able to miss it, since the airline staff won't let you wander around the airport without rechecking your luggage first.
• With your checked bag, you'll have to go through the customs and immigration area. You'll have to show them your passport, and they'll check your luggage for any items that might be illegal to bring to that country, like meat, eggs, milk, fruit, vegetables, and illegal items.
• Sometimes, airports will have a dedicated rechecking area, where you just drop off your bag straight after going through customs.
• In other airports, you'll have to recheck your bag manually, by waiting in line at the check-in desks. If your next flight is more than two hours away, you'll probably have to wait until the check-in desks open for the next flight. If that's the case, I hope you packed a good book. Buy a coffee or snack, find a seat, and prepare to wait until your flight opens for check-in.
• Once the check-in desk opens, drop off your bags and pick up your boarding pass.
• Go through security screening as you normally would.
• Go to your gate and wait until boarding starts.

Read Next: Can You Leave the Airport During a Layover?

Frequently Asked Questions About Rechecking Luggage

What happens to luggage on connecting flights with the same airline, what happens to luggage on connecting flights with different airlines, will i have to recheck my luggage on domestic flights, what happens to luggage on international flights with a domestic connection, do i have to pay any fees for rechecking my luggage.

Generally, you shouldn't have to pay extra fees when rechecking luggage during a connection. If you purchased flights on the same booking, and you already paid the checked luggage fees for both flights, or if checked luggage is free, there shouldn't be any additional fees.

The only case when you'd need to pay is if you purchased checked luggage for the first leg of the flight and forgot to purchase checked luggage for the second one. In that case, you'd be asked to purchase additional luggage when trying to check it back in at the airport, and usually, the costs for last-minute checked bags are a bit higher compared to purchasing them online.

What's the difference between transit vs connecting flight vs layover vs stopover?

Transit, transfer, layover, and stopover are all terms used to describe the connection in a connecting flight, with at least two flights and a stop in the middle.

Transit and transfer typically mean short connections anywhere between 30 m - 4 h. The only difference is that in transit, you're exiting and entering the same flight, and in a transfer, you're transferring to a new airplane (and maybe even a different airline).

Layovers and stopovers are essentially long connections in connecting flights, anywhere between 4 - 24 h. Stopover refers to a slightly longer connection than a layover, but there is no distinction of when exactly that happens. Usually, layovers last only a few hours, and the term stopover is used to describe overnight layovers, where you have to spend the night at the airport.

Read Next: Airport Travel Terminology 101 – The Ultimate Guide

What's the minimum layover time when traveling with checked luggage?

The absolute minimum time you need for a short layover is 30 minutes for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights. This is assuming that you'll arrive on time, you won't need to recheck your luggage, and the customs and security lines will be short enough.

That being said, I never book flights with such short layovers. I recommend booking flights with 2-hour layovers for domestic flights and 3-hour layovers for international flights . Most people who travel frequently generally agree with this rule , and some even prefer to add an additional hour to the layover.

You should allow more time for layovers because often planes will be delayed for 20-60 minutes. I can say confidently from my own experience, that this happens maybe once in every four flights. Also, sometimes you may face double security, or security and customs lines could be unusually long on that particular day.

Personally, I like to freshen up, get some fresh air, and have a meal during an extra-long layover. Having this much free time can help you to avoid much of the stress that you might accumulate during transit.

Can I short-check my luggage?

If the layover is long enough, sometimes airline employees will allow you to " short-check " your checked bag, which means that it won't be checked in to the final destination. Essentially, short-checking means intentionally rechecking your luggage during a layover.

Short-checking is useful if the layover is long enough and you've got plans to do something during the layover. For instance, if you'd have a layover in Berlin where you'd scheduled a meeting, you might need access to your suit. In this situation, you should ask the airline employee if it's possible to short-check your bag to Berlin because you'll need access to your checked luggage, where the suiter compartment is located.

Tip: Personally, I always pack everything that I'll need during a layover [amazon link="B07BM9DFX9" title="in my carry-on"] and avoid short-checking when possible.

Final Words

Generally, it's pretty easy to understand whether you'll need to recheck your bag if you know other factors, like if both flights are purchased in the same booking and where the layover is going to take place. However, to be certain, you should always check the label attached to your checked bag - if it's destined for your final destination, then you won't need to recheck your bag. Alternatively, you could just get in touch with the airline and ask directly.

Connections

Make sure to select the airline(s) that are operating your connecting flight(s).

Disclaimer Information on this page should be considered as a guide only. There may be different travel restrictions in each country you visit on your trip. Make sure you are familiar with all of the requirements and have the right testing and vaccination information prepared.

Domestic connections:

If you are arriving from a Canadian city and travelling on to a Canadian city with the same airline, simply find your next flight on the flight information screens and proceed to your departure gate. If you are using two different airlines, please check with your airline for information.

Arriving international connecting to domestic

Passengers arriving from eligible airlines and international destinations connecting on to a Canadian city do not have to pick up their checked baggage (unless otherwise stated by CBSA) and can go directly to their departing gate after clearing CBSA)

Arriving from within Canada connecting to another country:

When connecting to another country from within Canada, if your baggage is checked-through to your final destination you will not claim your checked-bags in Toronto. Please confirm this with your airline when you check in for your first flight. You will also need to ensure that you have a boarding pass for your connecting flight – if you do not, contact your airline for instructions. Upon arrival, follow the signs to your connecting gate.

Arriving from within Canada connecting to the USA:

When connecting to the United States from within Canada, if your baggage is checked-through to your final destination you will not claim your checked-bags in Toronto. Please confirm this with your airline when you check in for your first flight. You will also need to ensure that you have a boarding pass for your connecting flight – if you do not, contact your airline for instructions. Upon arrival, follow the signs for F Gates for Terminal 1 departures or A Gates for Terminal 3 departure. Please note you will need additional security screening in Toronto and will pre-clear US Customs before you may access your departure gate.

Arriving international connecting to International:

When connecting from outside of Canada to another country (excluding the United States), if your baggage is checked-through to your final destination you may not need to claim your checked-bags in Toronto. Please confirm this with your airline when you check in for your first flight. You will also need to ensure that you have a boarding pass for your connecting flight – if you do not, contact your airline for instructions. Upon arrival, check with your airline for directions to get to your connecting flight. Please note, you may be subject to additional security screening before accessing the gate area for your connecting flight. Due to border restrictions, be sure to check https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid to ensure you are permitted to travel to or through Canada at this time.

If you need further guidance on your connection through Pearson you can text, chat or email us .

Protect Your Trip »

What to do if your flight is canceled.

Follow these steps in the event your flight is canceled.

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

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Key Takeaways

• If your flight has been canceled, you are entitled to a full cash refund per federal law.
• Using the airline's app or calling an international airline number is often the quickest way to get help.
• The DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard shows what each major domestic airline will or will not provide in the event of a cancellation or delay.

If your flight has been canceled, read on for step-by-step instructions on how to rearrange your travel plans and/or claim compensation.

What to do if your flight is canceled

1. get on the airline's app – or make an international call.

First, pull up the airline's app on your phone. Most airline apps allow you to easily rebook your flight for free, provided you can supply your six-character reservation code. Getting in line to speak with an agent and calling the airline while you wait is also a good idea (albeit slower than using an app), and social media messaging, texting or WhatsApp may prove helpful. "During times of mass travel disruption, you should try all different avenues for getting help," says Nick Ewen, director of content at The Points Guy.

Ewen also recommends a lesser-known tactic: calling the airline's international numbers. Airlines have offices in Canada, Mexico, the U.K. and more. "While it can be costly, you can often get through to an agent more quickly," Ewen says.

Note that, depending on why your flight was canceled, finding seats on a new flight may alter your travel plans considerably.

2. Book a hotel

Next, determine if you need overnight accommodations. "If you were originally booked on the last flight of the night and there are no other options, grab a hotel room near the airport before they're all taken," Ewen advises.

3. Ask for a refund

If the airline cancels your flight or it's "significantly delayed" (a term currently defined on a case-by-case basis) and you're forced to change your travel plans, the Department of Transportation requires airlines to provide a full refund. Unfortunately, getting a refund can be a lengthy and frustrating process. Most airlines will instead offer a credit for future travel, but be wary of these, since they often come with limitations such as blackout and expiration dates.

When you're able to get a refund, note that it covers the total cost of airfare only and does not include other expenses associated with your trip.

If you believe you're entitled to a refund and the airline denies it to you, you can and should file a complaint with the DOT .

4. Reference the DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard

While you're entitled to a full refund, other flight cancellation policies may vary by airline. Go to the DOT's Cancellation and Delay Dashboard to see what each major airline will and will not offer in the event of a controllable cancellation.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

What to do if your flight is delayed

In the event your flight is delayed, airlines are not legally obligated to give you a refund unless the DOT determines the delay to be "significant." But here's what you can do:

Research other flights

Investigate what other flights on that airline are headed to your destination and ask an agent if they can get you on one of them (without charging change fees). Also be sure to look into what's available on other airlines: If your original airline doesn't have any flights available on your departure date, an agent may be able to book you on a flight with a different carrier at no additional cost to you. Note, however, that airlines are not legally required to do this.

Inquire about other compensation

If you've been stranded at the airport for several hours, check in with an agent and reference the Commitments for Controllable Delays section on the DOT's Cancellation and Delay Dashboard – regardless of whether you're able to get on another flight. Some airlines may provide amenities such as vouchers for meals or overnight accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions

"The main causes for flight disruptions are bad weather, understaffed air traffic control, and factors within the airline’s control,"  says Katy Nastro, a spokesperson at Going.com, formerly Scott's Cheap Flights. She explains the following:

• Weather:  This is outside of the airline's control and is the single biggest reason for why we see flight disruptions. We saw this play out over the winter holidays in 2022, and even to some extent during the 2023 holiday season. Even if the weather is accurately predicted, it cannot be controlled, which means at times flight disruptions are unavoidable.
• Understaffed air traffic control:  The U.S. air travel industry has made strides in pilot hiring year over year, but when it comes to air traffic control, we are still down roughly 1,000 fewer air traffic controllers from a decade ago. New York metro area airports specifically have felt the brunt of this deficit, so much so that airlines were permitted to reduce schedules without penalty from the summer until the end of Q4 in 2023. At its lowest, the decrease in flights in the New York metro area resulted in about 11% fewer flights per day. With less trained staff, current air traffic controllers are stretched to the limit, and schedule reductions only temporarily solve this problem. Even with aggressive hiring efforts, training takes time and will not be a quick fix.

It's almost impossible to avoid canceled or delayed flights these days. But there are a few things you can do when booking flights to lessen your chances for travel disruptions.

Keep tabs on your aircraft: On your departure date, check your flight information before heading to the airport. You can keep a watchful eye on the flight's status – including the aircraft scheduled to operate your flight – using the airline's app or a third-party app such as FlightAware Flight Tracker (which also offers a website ), FlightRadar24 or TripIt Pro.

"As an example, if you're flying from Orlando to New York, and your plane is flying in from Chicago, the initial flight from Chicago to Orlando might be delayed (or canceled) before yours is," Ewen explains. "Airlines will try to find replacement aircraft in that case, but if you can identify a potential cancellation before it officially happens, you may be able to get rebooked ahead of the other 100-plus passengers on your flight."

Consider an alternate airport: When booking your flight, you may consider flying out of a different airport than the one you typically depart from. For example, a small regional airport with limited routes may mean less travel delays and hassle overall – or it may be worth driving further to another international airport for a nonstop flight to your destination rather than opting for a connecting flight close to home.

Fly in the morning: While flight disruptions are unpredictable, historically fewer cancellations and delays occur in the morning.

Avoid weekend travel: Fly on off-peak days like Tuesday or Wednesday. You'll often find cheaper flights on these days, too.

Opt for longer layovers: If you need to take more than one flight to reach your destination, book a flight with a longer layover to provide enough time to make your connecting flight. Keep in mind that at some airports you may need to go through security or customs for your connection. For longer journeys, you can reduce the risk of missing connecting flights by planning a city stopover. For example, Icelandair offers Iceland stopovers for no additional airfare.

Consider a credit card with travel protections: You don't need to be a frequent traveler to take advantage of credit card travel protections and perks. Here are a couple options to consider:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred :  This travel credit card ($95 annually) provides coverage for delays and cancellations when used to book flights. It also provides other travel protections such as delayed baggage coverage. "Even someone who travels just once or twice a year can still get phenomenal value from this card," Ewen says.
• American Express Platinum Card :  This card ($695 annually) offers travel insurance that reimburses some nonrefundable expenses like hotel accommodations, meals and other essentials as long as the trip was purchased using the card.

When choosing a travel credit card, you should also pay attention to other benefits. Even the most basic airline credit cards can offer travel perks like discounts on in-flight purchases and waived baggage fees, while premium travel credit cards (which require a higher annual fee) can include access to an airport lounge with food, drinks and Wi-Fi. Some also provide a concierge service to rebook flights or built-in trip insurance to cover unforeseen expenses.

Purchase travel insurance: If your credit card doesn't include travel protections, consider purchasing insurance with flight coverages – even a cheap travel policy can help protect your investment. Covered reasons include a travel carrier delay and loss or theft of travel documents, among other scenarios. If you're interested in purchasing a policy, you can browse the best travel insurance companies here .

Talk to a travel advisor: "Booking directly with your travel advisor provides more leverage and support if something goes wrong," explains Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer . "We can advocate for a better outcome should there be cancellations or hiccups in the itinerary."

Charlotte French, owner of Cavatica Luxury Travel , agrees, sharing this recent example: "My clients were booked on a nonstop United Flight from Tokyo (HND) to EWR (Newark) in business class, when it was canceled (due to technical issues). The clients were waiting in line to find other options for their return flight home; however, these were very limited. In parallel, I was able to speak to the United Airlines corporate desk (as a travel advisor) and was able to secure them in business class on a flight out of Tokyo the same day."

Avoid checking luggage: Travelers who only travel with a carry-on bag and/or personal item (such as a backpack or purse) that meet carry-on size restrictions will have the most flexibility in rebooking – and will also avoid the chance of lost luggage, another common issue. Some carriers will try to move checked luggage to a later flight for you and will make every effort to keep you and your belongings together. However, when airlines don't have interline agreements with other carriers, you'll have to allow enough time to retrieve and recheck your own luggage.

The number of canceled flights recently fell to its lowest rate in at least a decade — a welcome change for air travelers, especially following COVID-19-era travel disruptions.

Still, flight cancellations will always be inevitable, especially during the busy summer travel season. Summer 2024 is shaping up to be especially busy. "It was the busiest March on record for air travel according to the TSA," explains Nastro. "It also had the tenth busiest day on record, which is pretty significant since it is not a 'peak period' and is generally considered off-season in the Northern Hemisphere. If this trend continues, we are likely in for the busiest summer on record when it comes to air travel."

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Luggage Trackers
• Is a Travel Agent Worth It? The Pros and Cons
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seatbelt Extender?
• How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S.

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Global airlines are governed by strict 'freedoms of the air' dating back 80 years. They've created some funky routes.

• Global airlines are governed by nine "freedoms of the air," drafted 80 years ago in 1944.
• These dictate how airlines can operate in foreign nations, with some more complicated than others.
• The fifth freedom can give airlines a competitive edge and help capitalize on demand.

Over the past 100 years of shuttling people around the globe in metal flying machines, the world's aviation network has grown into a vast web of intersecting routes that connect nearly every corner of the globe.

Because of the complexities of crossing international borders, commercial carriers follow what is known as the "freedoms of the air" — or the right for an airline to operate within a nation other than its own.

These building blocks of aviation make international connectivity possible. 

According to the International Civil Aviation Organization, or ICAO , there are five official freedoms and four other "so-called" rights, that have been outlined in agreements between countries. ICAO is an agency of the United Nations that sets standards for the global aviation industry.

Drafted in 1944 during what is known as the Chicago Convention, the laws were written as world governments relaxed their grip on airline networks and pricing. This liberalization, however, meant countries with bigger airlines would likely dominate the skies — prompting them to implement strict route regulations.

The governing freedoms not only promote more competition and choice but also allow airlines to optimize routes and increase efficiency, according to FlightRadar24 . 

Most international carriers except for a very small few follow the basic freedoms of allowing airlines of one state to fly over or land in another, and vice versa.

Open Skies agreements simplify these international routes, like the one between the European Union and the US that allows any airline registered in either market to fly between the two.

Some freedoms are more complicated, but provide interesting and diverse route options to travelers.

The fifth and eighth freedoms of the air

Beyond the first four freedoms, there is one more officially recognized right, as well as the four "so-called" rights. The latter four were not officially drafted during the 1944 Chicago Convention but are regularly accepted and practiced worldwide.

According to ICAO, the fifth freedom gives an airline of one nation the right to fly between two other countries, so long as the one-stop routes start or end in its home country and all parties agree.

Among the most well-known fifth freedom routes are Emirates' flights from New York-JFK to Milan and Newark to Athens, both flying onward to the carrier's base in Dubai.

Similarly, Singapore Airlines flies between New York and Singapore via a stop in Frankfurt , and Australian flag carrier Qantas flies between Sydney and New York via Auckland, New Zealand, according to Google Flights.

United Airlines' delayed fifth freedom route will fly between the US mainland and Cebu, Philippines, via Tokyo starting in October, the carrier told Business Insider on Monday. It was supposed to start in July — before the FAA launched an investigation after a string of safety incidents at United.

These unique routes can be efficient for airlines trying to serve destinations that a plane can't reach nonstop, like Emirates' fifth freedom between Mexico City and Dubai via Barcelona or Latam Airlines' route between Sydney and Santiago, Chile, via Auckland. 

Still, carriers will make stops on otherwise attainable direct flights because they can capitalize on the high-demand market on both legs — filling more seats and making more money.

Customers may also view carriers like Emirates and Singapore as a more luxe offering than the competing US and EU carriers across the Atlantic.

On the other hand, an airline that wants to serve a low-demand market can better fill the plane by adding a fifth-freedom leg to a nearby city, like Dutch flag carrier KLM's flight between Amsterdam and Santiago via Buenos Aires. 

Among ICAO's most interesting "so-called" rights is the eighth freedom, which gives an airline the right to fly between two cities in a country that isn't its own— but the domestic leg seats cannot be sold as the entire journey must start or end in the foreign airline's home nation.

Related stories

Qantas used to fly an eighth freedom route between New York and Sydney via Los Angeles — but only those originating or destined for Australia could fly on the domestic cross-country leg, Forbes reported.

Also no longer flying, per Cirium data, African carrier Air Senegal, for example, launched a flight from Dakar to Baltimore with a layover in New York in 2021. The domestic leg seats couldn't be sold.

Here's a closer look at the freedoms of the air.

"Five Freedom Agreements"

First Freedom

This allows an airline of one nation to fly over another without landing.

Second Freedom

This allows an airline of one nation the right to land in another territory for a technical stop. Think refueling or an inflight mechanical issue that prompted an unplanned emergency landing.

Third Freedom

This allows an airline of one nation to carry passengers to a foreign state, and vice versa.

Fourth Freedom

This allows the airline of one nation to take on passengers originating in another. The fourth freedom is simply the reverse of the third freedom.

Fifth Freedom

This allows an airline of one nation to carry passengers between two countries other than its own so long as the route starts or ends in the carrier's home state.

"So-called" rights

Six Freedom

This allows an airline to carry passengers from one nation to another via its home state. This represents the typical hub-and-spoke network used by global airlines.

Seventh Freedom

The seventh freedom is similar to the fifth freedom but takes out the limitation of where the route must start or end. Instead, an airline has the right to fly between two nations other than its own without flying onward to its home base.

The EU's single-aviation market, for example, grants airlines the right to fly to and from any EU country, like Ireland-based Ryanair that flies between Rome and Vilnius, Lithuania.

Eighth Freedom

This allows an airline to fly between two cities in a foreign country so long as all passengers originate or are destined for the airline's home state.

Ninth Freedom

This cabotage freedom allows an airline of one nation to fly between two points in a separate single country. This does not exist in the US, but it does in the EU — like easyJet's back-and-forth nonstop between Paris and Nice, for example.

Watch: Why Singapore Changi Airport was just named best in the world

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The U.S. issues new travel guidelines, warning that Iran will avenge the killings of senior commanders.

The State Department has barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel. Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back over the deadly bombing this month of an Iranian Embassy complex in Syria.

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By Liam Stack and Eric Schmitt

• April 12, 2024

Several countries including the United States have issued new travel guidelines for Israel and the surrounding region, as the Israeli military said its forces were “highly alert” for a possible Iranian strike in retaliation for the killings of several commanders.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back at Israel over the bombing of an Iranian Embassy complex in Damascus, Syria, this month that killed three generals and four other military officers. An American official said on Friday that Washington expects an attack by Iran against Israel that would be bigger than recent attacks in the long shadow war between the two countries, but not so big that it would draw the United States into war. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

The U.S. State Department on Thursday barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel, the first time the U.S. government had restricted the movement of its employees in this way since the war in Gaza began more than six months ago.

On Thursday, Britain told its citizens that they “should consider leaving” Israel and the Palestinian territories “if it is safe to do so.” On Friday, India told its citizens “not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice,” while France advised people not to travel to Israel, Iran or Lebanon and evacuated the families of French diplomats from Iran.

Asked about the U.S. travel warning , Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, said at a news briefing Thursday: “We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days.” He declined to provide details about any specific information that prompted the warning.

The new guidelines bar U.S. government employees and their families from traveling to locations outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba metropolitan areas “out of an abundance of caution” until further notice. The State Department said U.S. personnel could move among those areas for personal travel.

The top American military commander for the Middle East, Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, traveled to Israel to coordinate a response to possible Iranian retaliation, U.S. officials said.

“Our enemies think that they will divide Israel and the United States,” the Israeli defense minister, Yoav Gallant, said in a statement on Friday after meeting with General Kurilla. “They are connecting us and are strengthening the relationship between us.”

If Iran attacks, he added, “we will know how to respond.”

On Thursday, the Israeli military’s chief spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said that the armed forces were “highly alert and prepared” for any action Iran might take, even as the timing and scale of any response remained unclear. Analysts say that Tehran, which has long used a network of proxy forces to project power across the Middle East, wants to avoid igniting a full-fledged war that could drag in the United States and threaten the survival of Iran’s regime.

“For years, and even more so during the war, Iran has been financing, directing and arming its proxies — in Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, Iraq and Yemen — to attack the state of Israel,” he said. “An attack from Iranian territory would be clear evidence of Iran’s intentions to escalate the Middle East and stop hiding behind the proxies.”

Liam Stack is a Times reporter covering the Israel-Hamas war from Jerusalem. More about Liam Stack

Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

Britain, the United States, France and other allies of Israel have voiced their anger over the death toll in Gaza, but when Iran launched a missile barrage at Israel, they set it aside . At least for the moment.

Israeli settlers fatally shot two Palestinians in the West Bank , according to Israeli and Palestinian officials, as tensions  continued to spike in the Israeli-occupied territory.

Ruth Patir, the artist representing Israel at the Venice Biennale, said she wouldn’t open her show in the national pavilion  until Israel and Hamas reach “a cease-fire and hostage release agreement.”

Mobilizing the American Left: As the death toll in Gaza climbed, the pro-Palestinian movement grew into a powerful, if disjointed, political force in the United States . Democrats are feeling the pressure.

Riding Rage Over Israel: Jackson Hinkle’s incendiary commentary  has generated over two million new followers on X since October — a surge that some researchers say is aided by inauthentic accounts by the online celebrity.

Psychedelics and Trauma: Thousands of festival-goers were using mind-altering substances when Hamas-led fighters attacked on Oct 7. Now, scientists are studying the effects of such drugs at a moment of trauma .

Turmoil at J Street: The war in Gaza has raised serious concerns within the Jewish political advocacy group about its ability to hold a middle position  without being pulled apart by forces on the right and the left.