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Running into flight cancellations when you're traveling is never fun. Whether you're already at the airport, in the middle of a layover, or waiting to get back home, seeing that your planned flight has been abruptly cancelled often causes anxiety, stress, and frustration.

Inclement weather, pilot problems, or even unforeseen overbookings can each ground planes that were previously set to take off. No matter the cause behind your cancelled flight, if you're interesting in getting rebooking, time is of the essence.

Cancellations can impact hundreds if not thousands of travelers. Each one will be scrambling to receive a refund, get a new flight, or otherwise arrive at their intended destinations. Thankfully, there are some effective steps you can employ to get rebooking ASAP.

See if your airline allows you to rebook through its mobile app

Many air carriers, like American, promptly notify you of cancellations via email and through the app. Often, you'll receive a prompt to select a new flight, something you should do sooner rather than later.

Sometimes, the airline will automatically rebook you on an upcoming flight; however, if the trip is later than you would like, you may be able to select a different flight in the app, free of charge.

Call the airline as soon as you can

Under particular circumstances, your air carrier's mobile app may not contain all or any of the available upcoming flights. In case you don't find an alternate trip to your liking, it's best to phone the airline as quickly as possible.

Upon speaking to a representative, they'll be able to quickly look up the next open flights and inform you of your options. If the trip cancellation is not caused by inclement weather, the air carrier may even book you with a partner airline.

Head over to a customer support desk at the airport

If you're already in the airport during a flight cancellation, a customer support desk can assist with rebookings. Be warned, however, that the lines for these desks get very long very quickly. While waiting, try getting a new flight via the mobile app or by calling the airline.