What to Do When Your Flight Is Delayed
A flight delay can change your departure time, gate and travel plans. Start by checking the current flight status, then continue watching your airline’s notifications and airport displays because the timing can change again.
Should You Leave for the Airport Later?
Do not assume that an announced delay means you should automatically arrive later. Departure estimates can change, and airline check-in or baggage deadlines may still apply. Follow your airline’s instructions for your specific flight.
What to Check During a Delay
- Flight status and updated departure time.
- Terminal and gate information.
- Airline notifications and rebooking instructions.
- Your connecting flight, if you have one.
- Airport displays once you are inside the terminal.
Check Your Delayed Flight
Use the live flight lookup to review current flight details, including gate and terminal information when available.
Check Flight StatusDelayed Flight FAQ
Can a delayed flight become earlier again?
Flight estimates can change as conditions change. Continue following your airline’s instructions and do not rely only on an earlier delay estimate.
Can my gate change during a delay?
Yes. Gate assignments can change during normal operations and during delays. Recheck airport displays and airline updates before boarding.
What if a delay affects my connecting flight?
Check the status of your connection and contact your airline for the options available under your itinerary and ticket.
Missed connection • Travel help • Why gates change • Flight status
Keep planning: ¿Qué significa el estado de un vuelo? Cómo verificar si tu vuelo ha sido cancelado What Does Diverted Mean on a Flight Status?
What Travelers Should Know
Keep watching the estimate
A delay estimate can move earlier or later as the airline learns more about the aircraft, crew, weather or airport conditions. Continue checking rather than relying on the first delay time you saw.
Watch your connection risk
If the new arrival time makes a connection tight, review alternative flights and rebooking options early. Acting before the connection is formally missed can sometimes give you more choices.
Confirm the gate after a delay
Delayed flights can also move gates. Recheck the terminal and gate as the new departure time approaches and listen for airline announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I still go to the airport if my flight is delayed?
Often yes, because delay estimates can change. Follow your airline's instructions and do not assume the first delay estimate is final.
Can a delayed flight change gates?
Yes. A delay can be accompanied by a gate or terminal change, so continue checking the latest flight information.
What if the delay causes me to miss a connection?
Review rebooking options early and contact the airline. You may be moved to another itinerary before the original connection is officially missed.
Plan Your Trip
Use your flight details to check status and gate information, then continue with airport, hotel and rental-car planning.