Below is a summary of what happens if you miss a flight with Sunrise Airways, based on available data:
Key Points of Sunrise Airways Missed Flight Policy
No-Show Policy:
- If you fail to check in at least 45 minutes before departure for international flights or 10 minutes before departure for domestic flights within Haiti, you may be considered a no-show, and your seat could be canceled. This is inferred from their check-in requirements.
- No-show penalties depend on the fare type (Basic, Plus, Premium). Basic fares are the most restrictive, often resulting in the loss of the ticket’s value, while Plus and Premium fares may allow rebooking with fees.
- Tickets are non-transferable and valid for one year from the issue date. If you miss a flight, the itinerary must be canceled or modified before the first unused flight’s departure, or the ticket may lose all value.
Rebooking Options:
- If you miss your flight, Sunrise Airways may allow rebooking on the next available flight, subject to availability and fare rules. You’ll likely need to pay a change fee plus any fare difference, depending on your ticket type.
- For Plus fares, one free date change is permitted, which could apply to missed flights if requested promptly. Premium fares offer the most flexibility, potentially allowing rebooking without penalty under certain conditions.
Refunds for Missed Flights:
- Refunds are generally not available for missed flights, especially for non-refundable fares, which Sunrise Airways uses to keep prices low. However, you may be eligible for a refund if:
- You cancel at least 60 days prior to departure (not applicable to last-minute missed flights).
- The missed flight was due to an airline-caused issue, such as a cancellation or significant delay (e.g., 2+ hours), in which case they may offer a refund or rebooking.
- If you miss a flight due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., medical emergency or military deployment), Sunrise Airways may waive fees or offer accommodations, but this requires verification (e.g., medical certificate).
- Refunds, if applicable, are processed in the same currency as the ticket purchase, minus any cancellation or no-show fees.
Missed Connecting Flights:
- If you miss a connecting flight due to a delay or cancellation of a Sunrise Airways flight, the airline will attempt to rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost. They may also arrange accommodation if no flights are available, especially for weather-related issues.
- For connecting flights with codeshare partners (e.g., Cubana de Aviación) or interline agreements (e.g., Hahn Air, Air Caraibes), policies may vary, and you should contact Sunrise Airways immediately to coordinate.
- Pets are not accepted on connecting or codeshare flights, which could complicate rebooking if traveling with a pet.
Customer Responsibility:
- Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before international flights and 1 hour before domestic flights to allow time for check-in, security, and boarding.
- Check flight status online or via customer service, as Sunrise Airways notes limited options for real-time flight status updates.
Practical Steps if You Miss a Flight
1. Contact Sunrise Airways Immediately:
- Visit an airport ticket counter to discuss rebooking or refund options.
- Have your booking reference number and ticket details ready.
2. Check Fare Rules:
- Review your ticket’s fare type (Basic, Plus, Premium) on the website or confirmation email to understand penalties or flexibility.
3. Request Rebooking:
- Ask for the next available flight. Be prepared for fees (typically $50–$100 USD) or fare differences, unless your fare allows free changes.
4. Document Issues:
- If the missed flight was due to airline delays or cancellations, request a written explanation at the airport counter to support rebooking or refund claims.
Additional Notes
- Cuba Flights: Flights to Cuba are currently postponed pending government approval, which may affect rebooking options for missed flights on these routes.
- Customer Feedback: Some travelers have reported poor communication from Sunrise Airways regarding flight changes or issues, so proactive contact is crucial. Others have noted improved service on certain routes, suggesting variability in customer experience.
Recommendations
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive well before the check-in deadlines to avoid missing your flight.
- Monitor Flight Status: Use the Sunrise Airways website or app to stay updated, as real-time status updates may be limited.
- Know Your Fare: Understanding your ticket’s fare rules (Basic, Plus, Premium) will clarify your options for rebooking or refunds.
- Contact Promptly: Reach out to Sunrise Airways as soon as you know you’ll miss a flight to maximize your chances of rebooking without severe penalties.