
To calculate the average departure delay, we took an average of each airline's reported departure delays over that same time period. We used the last 12 months' worth of data available from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, measuring from May 2018 to May 2019. Airlines will typically offer to rebook at a later time, but if it doesn't work for your plans, then don't feel like you have to accept.

Even if you purchased a nonrefundable ticket, you can usually get your money back if your flight was seriously delayed. Since most credit cards offer varying coverage, we recommend contacting your own credit card company with any questions about your coverage. The benefit typically covers things like hotel nights, clothing and certain expenses like toiletries. Some premium travel rewards credit cards offer trip delay insurance on flights you book using the card. If not, you can always shell out the $40 to $100 to enjoy drinks, food and shower suites while you wait for your flight to arrive. You may already have one of these cards in your wallet. Many credit cards, especially co-branded airline cards, offer complimentary lounge access. If you'll have to stick around the airport for a few hours before your rescheduled flight, then take advantage of airport lounges. Not only will it be faster most of the time, but the entire ordeal will likely be calmer since the phone agent doesn't have to deal with other irate passengers in line. Use this to your advantage and call the airline directly from your cellphone.

As soon as the flight attendant announces a delay, most people rush the front desk.
