Picture this: You’re running to catch a flight to Joburg, heart pounding, sweat dripping down your forehead. You’re almost there, you can practically taste your economy window seat and complimentary lunch. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a massive pothole jumps up and flattens your tire (let’s be honest, this is likely to happen in SA). You curse the pothole gods and quickly swap out the tire, but it’s too late – your plane has already taken off…
Before you throw in the towel and book a one-way ticket to an island never to return, there’s something you should know: some airlines have a flat-tire policy!
What is the flat tire policy?
What’s a flat-tire policy, you ask? It’s like a guardian angel for travellers who miss their flights due to unforeseen circumstances. It’s a policy that allows you to receive accommodations on other flights, so you can still make it to your destination without breaking the bank on purchasing another ticket.
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Some airlines have a flat tire policy that allows customers who experience a flat tire or other unexpected events to be rebooked on the next available flight without incurring a change fee. Similarly, other airlines may have a similar policy that allows passengers to rebook without change fees or fare differences, provided they notify the airline within a certain timeframe.
But…
There is a catch, though: not all airlines have a flat-tire policy. So, if you’re in a bind, it’s worth checking to see if your airline does. And even if they don’t have an official policy, it’s always worth asking if they can do anything to help. After all, airlines are in the business of getting people to their destinations (and making sure they don’t hate the experience).
Just remember, don’t abuse the flat-tire policy. It’s there to help you out in a pinch, not to be taken advantage of. So, if you find yourself in a sticky situation, check if your airline has a similar policy and see if they can save you from a missed flight. Who knows, maybe they’ll even throw in a free bag of peanuts as a bonus. Wishful thinking though.
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