Travel Disruptions in 2024: The Rising Cost of Delays and Missed Connections

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Aug. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Flight delays have become a common frustration for travelers throughout the United States. Roughly 21% of all flights this year have arrived at their destination at least 15 minutes later than expected, according to data from the Department of Transportation.

Lengthy delays not only frustrate travelers, but can also result in significant financial losses by disrupting their itinerary. Squaremouth.com, leading US travel insurance marketplace, discusses the impact of travel delays and how travelers can protect themselves in the future.

Airline Delays Account for 25% Claims

Historically, airline delays are one of the most common reasons travelers file a claim, and this year is no exception. According to Squaremouth data, over 25% of all paid claims in 2024 are a result of flight delays and missed connections, which is consistent with last year. On average, these claims saved travelers an average of $435 per policy.

Protect Yourself from Delays

With travel up nearly 10% this fall and trip costs soaring even higher, travelers with upcoming trips should consider a travel insurance policy that includes the following benefits:

Travel Delay: Covers out-of-pocket expenses during a delay of at least 3-12 hours, including meals, accommodations, and transportation expenses. If a delay meets these requirements, the Travel Delay benefit can reimburse between $100 to $5,000, depending on the policy.

• Missed Connection: Reimburses the costs to catch up to your trip and make it to your destination. Most policies require a delay of at least three hours, and coverage within this benefit ranges from $50 to $2,500 depending on the policy.

Methodology: Travel insurance claims data is based on paid claims made by Tin Leg customers filed between the dates of 1/1/24 – 8/1/24.

Available Topic Expert: Jenna Hummer is available for comment and interview. [email protected]

About Squaremouth: Squaremouth.com has insured over 3 million travelers. Using Squaremouth's intuitive quoting and comparison engine, award-winning support team, and verified customer reviews, travelers can save time and money to find the best travel insurance policy for their trip.

SOURCE Squaremouth