Have you ever waited for long hours at the airport? It’s boring and can get tiring if you’re not doing anything to steal time. However, it is almost inevitable to not experience a flight delay that would cause you to wait for hours, especially if you travel internationally. There’s an increasing number of flight delays lately and agencies like Flightright are helping air passengers get compensated. But then, if you ever find yourself in such a situation, you can make the most of the extra time at the airport. In this article, we will highlight some of the best things you can do at the airport while you wait.
Plan Your Trip Highlights
While you sit at the airport lounge, you can use that time to plan your day-to-day highlights. Plan the activities for your trip, whether it is for business or leisure. This helps you save time, as you now know your agenda and just have to get on the move once you arrive at your destination. Take advantage of the airport internet connection and check out places you intend to stay or visit and also plan your meals
Help Yourself in the Airport Lounge
If there’s a flight delay, you will likely get a pass to the airport lounge while you wait. The lounge is comfortable and this is where you can have access to complimentary food and drinks. Under EU regulation 261/2004, you may be entitled to free meals if your flight is delayed for more than two hours. However, you should still ask nicely for the pass to the lounge, as not every airline will be immediately inclined to grant you access.
Catch up on Work
This extra free time will be a great time to catch up on work or indulge in any fun activity. Use this time to sort through pending emails and you can also start documenting your journey. Write for your blog and take pictures of your environment to either create content for later or to keep them as memories. If you have a book with you, this will be a great time to start reading. Or you can catch up on a movie series.
Work on Getting Compensated
If you are flying from the UK or EU or landing in one with a UK or EU airline, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The EU 261 regulation protects the rights of air passengers regarding this. If you are delayed for at least three hours, you may be entitled to compensation between €250 and €600. Use this waiting time to do your research and understand your rights under the EU 261 regulation. Find out the reason behind the delay and gather all relevant documents to help you get this compensation claim.
Bottom Line
Waiting for long hours at the airport can be tiring but you can take advantage of it by doing some of the things mentioned here. This will keep you occupied and also help you maintain your enthusiasm of travelling.