Airlines With The Most Flight Delays and Cancellations

What airlines carry the highest likelihood of flight delays and cancellations? Find out this and how to avoid a flight delay or cancellation - right here.

Based on this article from Yahoo! Finance Singapore, here are the findings from a survey of almost 2,000 Singaporeans on their flight delays, flight cancellations, and how to ensure you're not stuck in these two situations, too!

Firstly, let's read and find out about the top five airlines with the most flight delays. 

Which airlines have the most flight delays?

Air India

With almost 4 out of 5 travellers (78%) reporting delays in their flights, it's no wonder why Air India made it to the top of the list!

Air China

Air China holds the second spot of airlines with the most flight delays, with 70% of its flights delayed.

Cebu Pacific Air

Cebu Pacific Air is close to Air China at the third spot, with only a 1% difference (69%) in its percentage of flights delayed.

Bangkok Airways

Bangkok Airways sits at the fourth place of this list, with 62% of flights delayed.

Air Asia

Finally, Air Asia is in fifth place. Despite being famous as a low-cost airline, 47% of its flights tend to be delayed.

Which airlines have the most flight cancellations?

Next, let's check out the five airlines which top the list of the most cancellations.

Air India

Air India once again holds the top spot, this time with a 71% percentage of flight cancellations.

Cebu Pacific Air

Next, Cebu Pacific Air has a tendency for flight delays too, with 65% of the surveyed travellers reporting flight cancellations.

Air China

Air China is now in third place, with 64% of its flights cancelled, just 1% different from Cebu Pacific Air.

Bangkok Airways

62% of the travellers surveyed in Singapore reported Bangkok Airways had flight cancellations.

British Airways

The jump to the next airline with the most flight cancellations is vast. According to the surveyed travellers, British Airways had 37% of flights cancelled.

How does the airline handle flight delays and cancellations?

Airlines have set policies to manage flight delays and cancellations. If a flight is delayed or cancelled, the airline's first step is to rebook passengers on the next available flight. They usually waive rebooking fees and try to get passengers on the soonest alternative flight, either with their own airline or a partner airline.

If the delay or cancellation is the airline's fault, like mechanical issues or crew problems, they must provide certain amenities, such as meals, hotel stays, and transportation. However, if the disruption is due to extraordinary circumstances like severe weather, airlines are not required to offer these amenities. Passengers may be eligible for a refund or compensation if their flight is significantly delayed or cancelled, depending on the airline's policies and the reason for the disruption.

It's important to know that these policies can vary between airlines. Passengers should check with their airline for the most current information on their rights and the airline's responsibilities in these situations.

How to avoid flight delay and cancellation?

How you avoid flight delays and cancellations involves a few phases: before booking, after booking, and even while you're at the airport!

Before Booking

Choose A Reliable Airline

Research an airline's on-time performance and customer reviews to reduce your chances of flight delays or cancellations. Some airlines have a better track record due to their punctuality!


Select Direct Flights

Direct flights reduce your chances of delays and cancellations compared to connecting flights.

Pick Early-Morning Flights

Early flights are less likely to be delayed, as they bypass the cumulative impact of delays that build up over the course of the day.

Avoid Peak Travel Times

Traveling during off-peak times, such as mid-week or non-holiday periods, can significantly reduce the risk of delays.

After Booking

Monitor Your Flight's Status

Regularly check your flight status for updates and changes. Many airlines now offer mobile apps that deliver real-time notifications, enhancing your travel experience.

Check the Weather

Stay informed about the weather conditions at both your departure and arrival airports. Adverse weather frequently leads to delays and cancellations.

Arrive Early

Arriving at the airport early allows you extra time to handle any unexpected issues.

At the Airport

Stay Updated

Keep an eye glued on the airport information boards and listen for announcements about your flight.

Use the Airline’s App

Use your airline's app for real-time updates and to receive notifications about any changes.

Have a Backup Plan

Be aware of your options in case of a delay or cancellation. This includes alternative flights, different routes, or even nearby airports.

How do you avoid a flight cancellation?

These few but crucial steps will come in handy and save you the trouble of a flight cancellation.

Contact the Airline Immediately

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, contact the airline's customer service immediately to rebook or obtain more information.

Know Your Rights

Familiarise yourself with your rights for compensation or rebooking if your flight is delayed or cancelled, as these can vary by country and airline.

Travel Insurance

Consider buying travel insurance that covers delays and cancellations. This can offer financial protection and help with rescheduling your plans.

Read here for more information on the Best Travel Insurance with Trip and Flight Cancellation.