For the über-Road Warriors - those who spend their lives on the road

Knowledge is power. 

It is especially useful when things aren’t going the way they are supposed to go.  Especially when Murphy’s Law has the upper hand before you even get to board that plane for that important business meeting.

Say your airline has cancelled your flight. And the options given to you wouldn’t exactly solve the problem of getting you to your intended destination on time. What then?

Rule 240, baby!  

Note, however, that airlines have different versions of Rule 240. Check the fine print (those small texts written on traditional airline tickets or your airline' website) to confirm.

Here are the basics.  Rule 240 only applies to delays or cancellations caused by the airline -- like mechanical problems, late arrival of aircraft/pilot or crew, etc.  It does not apply to problems outside the airline’s control like weather and strikes.

If and when it is the airline’s fault (and your particular airlines does honor Rule 240) then you have the right to insist that the airline must do everything they could to get you to your intended (final) destination within a two-hour span.  

They should confirm you on the next available flight. It must be in the same or higher class, no additional cost for you.  

If this is not possible (next flight is too late, etc.) then they should confirm you on the next available flight on a different airline.

If your airline does honor Rule 240 and the one attending to you is not aware of the conditions (= your right), ask for the Supervisor. 

Here’s a transcript of CNN’s interview with Travel Writer George Hobica whose Rule 240 argument got him a first class seat.

If you have to wait for more than a couple of hours, at least, your frequent traveller membership gives you the right to stay in the business lounge where you can relax, work a bit and grab some snacks.