NORFOLK, Va. — While tropical storm Debby continues to roll through the Hampton Roads region, people with travel plans are worried about potential flight cancellations and delays.
Despite a few normal delays here and there, things have been moving smoothly at the Norfolk International Airport.
However, when a severe storm does pop into the area, it's important to be prepared to improvise travel plans.
Jim Kippenhan, owner of Destination Anywhere Travels - Dream Vacations, takes care of travel clients up and down the east coast. With the hurricane heading into the area, Kippenhan said some of his clients have been experiencing flight cancellations.
Kippenhan said when traveling during severe weather, “the most important thing you can do is be flexible,” because flights can change at any given moment. Recently Kippenhan has been getting several calls from clients worried about their travel plans.
“When you're in the airport, it’s tough sometimes but don’t lose your cool. everybody’s in the same boat,” Kippenhan said.
A plan of action is critical for travelers during severe weather. Where some airlines may not be as flexible as others, it's always important to look into your options beforehand. Luckily, Kippenhan said “most of them will automatically reschedule you into the next flight they have that’s going where you’re going.”
If you’re having trouble finding a new flight and you bought travel insurance you might be in luck, Kippenhan said. If purchased, he encourages people to “check that to see what your coverage is.”
Regardless, when in a messy travel situation, Kippenhan said, it's important to stay calm and flexible during the entire experience.
“When you're in the airport, it’s tough sometimes but don’t lose your cool. everybody’s in the same boat,” he said.