Takeoffs suspended in the USA: see what to do and what the airlines say

The suspension of takeoffs in the United States this Friday (13) could affect flights between Brazil and the country, although the extent of the impacts is still being assessed.

The measure was adopted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), after a failure in the North American air traffic control communication systems.

For passengers who experience delays or cancellations, Brazilian legislation provides for assistance from airlines, as well as alternatives such as rescheduling the trip or refunding.

The National Civil Aviation Agency (Anac) informed, in a note, that it is monitoring the situation. It also recommends passengers to check with airlines to check possible changes.

According to the agency, companies must immediately communicate any delays and cancellations, in addition to keeping passengers informed about expected departure times.

What to do if you have a flight scheduled to the USA?

The main guideline is to contact the airline to confirm the flight status and check for any changes.

In case of delay, cancellation or interruption of the service, the passenger is entitled to free material assistance, depending on the waiting time at the airport.

For delays of more than four hours, cancellations or service interruptions, the company must offer three alternatives:

Reaccommodation on another flight: at no additional cost, at the first available opportunity, including on another airline.

Full refund: refund of the amount paid for the ticket.

Transport by another modality: when this alternative is applicable.

Passengers can also choose to travel on another date and time of their choice. In this case, however, the rebooking must be done on the company's own flight, within the remaining validity period of the ticket.

If the problem is not resolved, the consumer can register a complaint directly on the Anac platform.

What do airlines say?

Goal

Gol reported that it is monitoring the suspension of takeoffs at American airports and has two flights scheduled for this Friday (13), both bound for Brasília.

They are:

G3 7635: Orlando (MCO) to Brasília (BSB), with departure scheduled for 11pm, Brasília time.

G3 7749: Miami (MIA) to Brasília (BSB), with departure scheduled for 11:35 pm, Brasília time.

The company stated that decisions on the two flights will follow its safety protocols. The company did not say whether there will be delays or cancellations.

Latam

In a statement, Latam stated that it was monitoring the situation and "working to offer the best alternatives" to passengers whose flights were affected, including "flexibility options to facilitate the rescheduling of their trips."

The company also recommends that passengers check the updated status of their flights through the Latam website or app.

Blue

Azul reported that it is monitoring the suspension of takeoffs in the USA and is awaiting further guidance from the American authorities.

According to the company, a flight from Campinas (SP) to Orlando continued normally, with landing scheduled for 9pm this Friday (13th), Brasília time.

The company also had three other flights scheduled: two departing from Orlando, bound for Campinas and Confins (MG), and one from Campinas to Fort Lauderdale.

Azul stated that all passengers will receive the necessary assistance, in accordance with Anac rules.

* Updated report