Airlines have been playing catch up following the post-pandemic slump with so many people taking to the skies this summer. As a result, thousands of flights were canceled in the first half of 2022, leaving passengers scrambling to save their vacations.

You may be asking, "Is American Airlines still canceling flights?" Unfortunately, American flight cancellations aren't as rare of an occurrence as passengers might hope. From January to May 2022, the world's largest airline canceled 3.36% of its flights. That adds up to over 11,500 flight cancellations in just five months.

These cancellations also came after the airline recently stripped passenger rights from its contract with flyers. That means it's as important as ever to know how to protect yourself if you encounter cancellations on American Airlines flights. Here's what you need to know about what to do if your flight is canceled.

Why is American canceling flights?

There are plenty of reasons why flights can be canceled, which vary in terms of whether or not the airline itself is responsible. Typical scenarios include inclement weather, mechanical delays and staffing issues that range from air traffic control to pilots to flight attendants.

Like other airlines, American has struggled to keep up with passenger demand following a lull in air travel during the pandemic. As a result, in July 2022, the airline announced it would cancel 1,200 flights to manage its schedule better.

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Flyer rights after American Airlines flight cancellations

From the carrier

American Airlines recently stripped away flyer rights from its Conditions of Carriage — which is the contract you agree to when booking an American ticket.

Under the new terms, American Airlines disclaims any liability for not getting you where you need to go if it cancels, delays or changes your flight schedule. So, for example, suppose there's an American Airlines flight cancellation or delay of more than four hours. In that case, American Airlines is only on the hook for refunding the remaining flights on your trip — even if that leaves you stranded somewhere.

If American cancels or delays a flight and causes you to miss a connection, the airline's contract says it will only "rebook you on the next American Airlines or American partner flight with available seats."

American makes some exceptions for elite status flyers and passengers booked in premium cabins and other exceptional circumstances — such as military orders, passengers with disabilities and unaccompanied minors. Also, let the agent know if you're traveling to a funeral, surgery or catching a cruise, as that may unlock more rebooking options.

From the U.S. Department of Transportation

According to consumer protections from the U.S. Department of Transportation, once you've booked a ticket with American, you're under Contract of Carriage.

Currently, if American cancels your flight, you have two options:

You can accept a rebooking from American.

You can have your money refunded to the original form of payment.

Even so, the DOT does not require airlines to provide passengers additional compensation for delayed or canceled flights. Refunds should include seat selection, checked baggage fees, and airfare.