Airlines Waive Change Fees in Reaction to Covid-19

Most major US airlines are wiving change fees for flights that are scheduled over the next month. If you have concerns about your travel plans, this means you now have an opportunity to adjust your travel schedule without paying the normal $200 and fare adjustment that most airlines charge. You may even be able to get a full refund on your flights in some circumstances if you choose not to travel.

This is a good move by the airlines as many travelers are quite nervous about the outbreak of Coronavirus worldwide.

Passengers who want to make flight changes or request refunds should contact the airlines directly to make changes. The two best ways to contact your airline are:

-Call the airline by looking up reservations phone numbers on the airline website

- Contact the airline via social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook. Airlines monitor their social media feeds like hawks. You are likely to get a quick response this way.

I do not recommend passengers visit an airport to make changes. The staff at airports are generally not prepared to make schedule adjustments as they are primarily focused on flights departing and incoming on the current day.

I have yet to see any major announcements from major hotel companies regarding adjustments to reservations and refunds for customers who decide not to travel. You should contact your booked hotel directly if you have questions. I will be sure to post hotel information regarding COVID-19 when and if I get it.

If you are still planning to travel it may be a good idea to purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance will cover travelers dealing with delayed or cancelled flights, loss and damage of baggage, and provides medical coverage in cases where travelers are injured or sick while on a trip.

Are you planning to travel in the next month or have you adjusted your plans based on the recent uncertainty regarding the virus outbreak? Let me know what changes you are making.

As always, if you have any additional travel issues or questions, leave your comments below. I would love to hear from you!

All images in this post are from my personal collection and were taken by me.