Missing a flight is stressful — but the first 30 minutes are critical. What you do right now determines whether you pay nothing to rebook or hundreds.
The moment you know you'll miss your flight — whether you're still in traffic, at security, or just ran to the gate — call a travel agent or the airline. Do not wait. Most airlines have rebooking windows that close quickly. The sooner you call, the more options are available — often at no extra charge.
Most major airlines have an informal policy that allows passengers who arrive at the airport late due to unforeseen circumstances to be placed on the next available flight — sometimes at no charge. A licensed travel agent knows how to request it and which circumstances qualify.
If you missed your outbound flight on a round trip, do not let the airline cancel or modify your return without explicit authorization. Your agent can protect your return booking while rebooking the outbound.