This morning, we encountered this article that may impact many of our readers as they go home after the Thanksgiving holiday.

“Is my flight delayed? Here are Sunday’s flight delay cancellation numbers
Zach WichterKathleen WongJosh Rivera, USA TODAY

Early reports signal little travel disruptions nationwide as millions of Americans hit the road or take to the skies post-Thanksgiving.

According to FlightAware’s flight-tracking website, only 43 U.S. flights had been canceled by 8 am ET, and another 568 had been delayed. It is worth mentioning that Saturday saw 6,357 flight delays, while today is expected to be the year’s busiest travel day.

Airlines have urged travelers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport, and a few have issued waivers for changes or cancellations due to weather concerns.

TSA reminders
Today, TSA projects are one of the busiest travel days.

Enjoy your worry-free vacation: Best travel insurance policies.

“Many members of the TSA workforce will be on duty throughout Thanksgiving Day and week, and I am immensely grateful for their selfless dedication and professionalism,” Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas said in a news release. “I encourage travelers to plan, follow TSA’s travel tips, and take advantage of programs like TSA PreCheck – simple steps that will make everyone’s journey smoother, our skies safer, and TSA’s job easier.”

As a reminder:

The TSA advises passengers to start packing with an empty bag to reduce the likelihood of bringing prohibited items through a checkpoint. All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be 3.4 ounces or less when packed in a carry-on bag.

Certain foods—considered liquids or gels —such as gravy, cranberry sauce, wine, jam, and preserves—must be packed in a checked bag if they exceed 3.4 ounces.

“If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, it is a liquid, aerosol or gel and must be packed in your checked bag if it exceeds the 3.4-ounce limit,” TSA said. “As always, passengers may bring solid foods such as cakes and other baked goods through the checkpoint.”

And yes, breast milk is an exception to the liquids rule.

What day will be the least busiest one to fly?
Today will be the busiest day for air travel, while the least busy days were Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28; Black Friday, Nov. 29; and this coming Tuesday, Dec. 3.

What is the DOT Dashboard?
The Department of Transportation created a dashboard so travelers can easily access information about U.S. airlines’ services in case of cancellations or delays.

Click here to access the DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard.

A new DOT rule that went into effect at the end of October requires airlines to refund passengers if their flight is significantly delayed for reasons within the carrier’s control. The rule also makes airlines more responsible for following their own customer commitments in those cases.

What is a significant delay?
The DOT defines a significant delay as a departure or arrival three hours late or more for a domestic flight or six hours for an international flight.

What is a controllable delay?
According to the DOT, an airline-caused delay is controllable. Controllable reasons include maintenance or crew problems, cabin cleaning, baggage loading, and fueling. Weather or air traffic control flow programs do not count against the airline.

What am I entitled to if my flight is delayed?
If your flight is delayed significantly for a reason in the airline’s control, you are entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel. If you decide to stick it out, you may still be entitled to some compensation or accommodation, including rebooking on another flight or airline at no cost, meal and lodging vouchers for qualifying delays, and other benefits.

No U.S. airlines currently offer cash compensation for delays. Still, the big four (American, Delta, Southwest, and United) all offer hotel and ground transportation vouchers for overnight stays due to a flight cancellation.

What to do if your flight is canceled
Your best bet is to know your airline’s policies before your trip and be your advocate. Get in touch with the airline however you can, whether through the app, social media, phone, or at the airport help desk if you’re already on your way. It’s usually a good idea to have some alternative flights in mind when you speak to an agent, and be sure to ask for any accommodation or refunds you may be entitled to if you plan to take advantage of those policies.”

Hopefully, the above information may be helpful for you during the busy holiday season. With more and more travelers after the end of the pandemic, the entire scenario has changed, and it’s imperative to stay up-to-date on your rights and options. Although “reading the small print” is irritating and time-consuming, it may be a good resource for transportation issues.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, December 1, 2014: