Avoiding airline hassles

From airline bankruptcies to flight cancellations and airline mergers, it's going to be a rough season for travelers. Here's your guide.

1) Know your rights

 Your rights in case your flight is delayed or cancelled is in the airlines' contract of carriage. To find that info, go to the airlines web site. It's a good idea to print it out and take it with you.

2) Get the track record

To get the track record of the airline you're thinking about flying.  Go to flightstats.com.

3) Use your cell phone

When you first book your flight, put in your cell phone number instead of your home number. Airlines have automatic systems that call customers in case of delays or cancellations. If you are contacted first, you'll have a much better chance of getting on a rebooked flight.