American Airlines is the latest airline to announce cuts to its schedules — particularly from its Philadelphia hub — even as demand for flights continues to rise.
American, like many other airlines, was downsized before the pandemic and is now trying to keep its operations running smoothly.
“America has taken steps to expand our aircraft for the resources we have and to build additional protection during the remainder of our summer schedule. Last month, America took strong steps to increase stability in our schedule by reducing September system capacity by approximately 2%,” said a statement from the company. “These changes have been made in markets with multiple frequencies—with the goal of transferring customers to it. different planes.”
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According to American, it is cutting hundreds of flights to its Philadelphia hub in the coming months – about 3% of its schedule in September, or about 7 flights a day, and 5% of its schedule. of going there in October, or about 13. trips per day.
The airline said it will contact customers whose flights are affected to make further arrangements. Customers who choose not to travel under the new itinerary may be entitled to a refund.
Other airlines making cuts
America should never cut back on its flying this summer. Read also : Air travel is a mess right now – here’s what to do if your flight is canceled.
In June, United Airlines announced it would cut 12% of its flights to Newark this summer, canceling about 50 daily flights starting July 1.
JetBlue also cut its schedule by about 10% this summer, and Delta “reduced the plan” to fly, canceling about 100 flights a day from July 1 through 7 August
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American Airlines previously announced that it will suspend service by its regional partners in four cities (Islip and Ithaca, New York; Toledo, Ohio and Dubuque, Iowa) in September, citing a pilot shortage.
European airports struggle as well
Travel woes aren’t limited to American skies this summer. See the article : Amid Airport Chaos, Semi-Private Jet Travel Creates the Goldilocks Option.
Long queues and canceled flights are facing passengers across Europe, with major airports including London’s Heathrow and Amsterdam’s Schiphol announcing vacancies for summer departures. In fact, on Wednesday, Schiphol said it would extend those limits until October.
What passengers are entitled to when their flights are changed
Passengers whose flights are canceled are usually entitled to repatriation to the U.S., but policies are less clear when flights are delayed. This may interest you : Summer Song 2022: Our writers choose their favorite pieces. The Department of Transportation technically requires airlines to compensate passengers with “major” delays, but it still doesn’t specify how long the delay must be to qualify.
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However, the department announced on Wednesday that it is seeking public feedback as it works to clarify regulations on airline compensation, and to enable passengers to make claims and refunds for their flights. interrupted.