
Just remember that maintaining a level head and being respectful can mean the difference in getting your situation resolved. The majority of us who call airline customer service aren’t singing the praises of the airline. Imagine yourself on the other side of the phone fielding dozens of calls like yours when a big delay is ravaging the calculated plans of hundreds of irate travelers.

The phone agent with whom you’re speaking didn’t single-handedly delay your flight. We’ve found that if you tell the automated system that you already have a reservation, you’ll sometimes end up at a customer service representative faster than had you called to make a new reservation. When in doubt, say 'existing reservation' Slowly and clearly say a general sentence about why you’re calling so you can be placed in the proper queue. Trying to skip these automated menus by saying “agent” (or any other response) often makes your call longer. Instead of selecting a number for a given option, you’re requested to describe what you’re calling about.

Automated systems are more prevalent than ever Let’s first look at a few important principles to keep in mind before you pick up the phone.

We’ll get into some airline-by-airline tips in a minute. (Photo By Carlos Lujan/Europa Press/Getty Images)
