DELAYED FLIGHT?

Happily you’ve booked your flight, got to the airport and the big a surprise waits for you there. If you are lucky enough, your flight is just delayed, if not - cancelled.
In the majority of cases, weather instability or plane mechanical issues get things mixed up. The most unpleasant part is that delays are never predictable. First of all approach the desk or call directly your airline and ask if any closest alternatives by the time. It may happen you are told to wait, but that is not the best option, insist to get instructions or a backup flight instead. 
Please be aware that each airline company has its own policy on delayed passengers waiting at the airport. However the airline staff might offer you a lounge pass or pay for a meal. But usually it will happen in case you ask for it and if the flight is delayed due to mechanical issues. Keep in mind that low cost companies would not provide any amenities to temporarily abandoned passengers. Others may not offer additional conveniences if the delay is induced by wrecking weather conditions or any other phenomena beyond the airline's control. Remember, airlines are not obliged to compensate passengers whose flights are canceled or delayed. 
Nevertheless you could receive a reimbursement or be offered another flight option free of charge if you don’t get to the flight with oversold tickets and the jet takes off without you. Be sure to arrive at the gate as if you were leaving as previously scheduled until you receive clear confirmation details on the replacing flight. This of course unless the airline instructed you otherwise.

The travel insurance will always be there. However it does not come into effect immediately. Most probably the coverage becomes valid from over 3 hours< of delay. Insurance policy terms and backup flight options are key aspects you must take care when getting ready for a travel by air.

To make everything that depends on you, stick to some disciple and check your flight status regularly at least 24 hours before departure. 
Assume you have noticed “flight delayed” from your home PC, even then rush to be at the gate on time as if no changes in schedule arisen. Things may change shortly and you definitely don’t want to miss the opportunity to reach destination well.

Likewise many industries, locations and companies, airports are rated by the delayed flights score. So USA airports like JFK, ORD, LGA, EWR and BOS – seem to be the less desired airports where you want to find your delayed flight. June reaches the highest USA average score with only 75% of flights arriving on time. The bright side is that choosing SLC and HNL airports you will have a 90% chance to take off right on the scheduled time. 
Above the other things you should better book an early flight. This way even at a delay-prone airport like Newark, about 90% of flights, before 9 a.m. depart on time. So look for airports ratings before you rush to book your seat.
Holders of single bought tickets will be much faster rebooked for the closest available flight. If your destination is to be reached only by two or three connected flights, try to book separate tickets rather than purchasing one, prearranged  for you since separate delayed flights might be substituted much easier.