Tips For Someone Trying To Get Another Flight After Missing Their Flight

Make sure you are going to the right person for help.

"Go directly to the ticket counter of your airline," says Garita. "Those are the people who are best equipped to help you."

If there are long lines at the ticket counter, you may be tempted to pick up the phone and call the airline's call center. If you do this, be aware there will be a charge on your new ticket for doing so.

"You can call reservations for help, but unfortunately, a lot of airline tickets have penalties for voluntary changes," says Garita. "The only ones who know for certain that the passenger showed up late and presented themselves to the ticket counter, instead of just not even trying to take the flight at all, are the ticket counter agents."

Garita goes on to say, "At reservations, we have to treat it like a voluntary change, even if there is a perfectly legitimate reason (traffic jam, etc.) that prevented the passenger from getting to the airport on time. Therefore, reservations has no choice but to charge change penalties and/or fare difference. If someone gets to the airport late, but talks to one of the counter agents, they most likely will try to work with the passenger to try to get them out on one of the next flights."

No matter how frustrated you may feel, remember that attitude is everything.

"When the airline has caused you to miss a flight, throwing a fit will not get you service any faster," says Garita. "There are some things that are out of an airlines control, such as the weather or mechanical difficulties. Staying calm is the best way to get faster service."

There are certain things you should tell someone who is helping you to find another flight.

"It is important to remind your ticket agent that you are on a connecting flight," says Garita. This may make a difference in what flight you are given.

"It's even more important if you are connecting to an international flight," states Garita. "You may be put on the next flight taking off, regardless of the airline. Your representative will help you in any way that they can."

Don't be tempted to do anything else before you talk to someone.

"Going off to make personal phone calls or to get something to eat may cause you to wait even longer," explains Garita. "If you need to get on the next possible flight, someone needs to know as soon as possible so they can accommodate you."

If you have special requirements, tell someone.

"If you have special needs in regards to your flight, let someone know," says Garita. "If you need a wheelchair for your next flight, they need to know as soon as possible. This makes everything run faster and smoother for all involved."

What is the most important advice? Stay put until the problem is resolved.

"Never leave the airport until you have either your new tickets or your new itinerary in your hand," says Garita. "If someone tells you they can get you on a flight in three hours but you don't get any documentation, things can get messed up rather easily."

Sometimes, you may have to stay overnight to catch the next flight. If you need assistance with a hotel room, let someone know.

"Sometimes an airline will help you find a hotel room or even give vouchers for free meals," says Garita. "This is completely up to the airline though. If the flight was missed because of the airline, they will be more willing to give you some extra things for your trouble."

No one is happy when they miss a flight, but remaining calm and knowing where to go for help will minimize your wait time. Even though it may not have been your fault, it is in your best interest to take the first step towards getting on the next flight.