Major airlines usually offer refunds in the case of "acts of god" such as hurricanes that can wreak havoc with air travel plans. Market Watch, a public relations group, however, claims that some airlines may have have put special policies in place for air travelers affected by Hurricane Earl, according to a recent press release.. “The nation's largest airlines are rolling out waivers that allow travelers to change flights without charge, but most come with specific stipulations” claims Market Watch is the press statement.
"A basic precedent for these things is you don't have any rights except for a refund in the case of a 'force majeure,' or an act of God," Anne Banas, executive editor at SmarterTravel.com told Market Watch. However, Banas also said “airlines have been really great when weather issues like this have come up by giving you a period where they waive the change fees."
Massport issues Hurricane Earl Travel Alert
Meanwhile, Massport, the agency that oversees Boston's Logan International Airport has put a Hurricane Earl Travel Alert on its website which states that "Massport is anticipating travel disruptions related to Hurricane Earl. Travelers are advised to check with their airfare or cruise line webpages before leaving for Boston or Cruiseport Boston."
Market Watch advises air travelers to speak directly with airlines about ticket changes
Market Watch is advising travelers tp speak with their airlines directly since “each one will have specific rules about what dates qualify and what cities are included”, said Banas. Hurricane Earl is now headed toward New York and New England and has been downgraded from a category four storm to a category one storm.
Earl left North Carolina with minimal damage. However, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick said today the Massachusetts is still in a “state of emergency", with Cape Cod and the islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard most vulnerable to Earl. Ferry service between the islands and the mainland Cape Cod may be shut down this afternoon depending upon sea conditions.
Market Watch list of airlines and ticket change policies
Market Watch has published a list of airlines ticket change policies for specific cities. However, travelers should double-check before basing any decisions on this list, which was released on Thursday and later clarified. Also, keep in mind that hurricanes are a force of nature and can change course quickly.
List of airlines with ticket change policies for Hurricane Earl travel
For a list of airlines and their policies regarding ticket changes and Hurricane Earl, click here:
SOURCE for background information: Market Watch
Related articles:
Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick issues State of Emergency
USA Today Travel report about airlines and Labor Day weekend travel
Information about Flight delays affecting Boston's Logan Airport
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