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Airline Bumps Make For Uncertain Travel Consumers

NEW YORK (CBS) ― We all know high gas prices are making hitting the road more expensive than ever. But rising fuel costs are taking a toll on air travel as well. If you've booked an upcoming trip, get ready for a bumpy ride. Schedules are changing and some flights are even being grounded altogether.

When Shawn Miller found out his brother was getting married, he immediately said, "I do," to booking a flight, but needed a low fare and a specific departure time.

"We wanted to work through the day and leave for the airport and get on a flight later on that evening but not too late because we have four kids," said Miller.

Miller's itinerary quickly hit some turbulence when the airline canceled both legs of his trip and reassigned new flights and times.

"I was surprised the airline could do this after we paid," said Miller.

In fact, a carrier can change your itinerary at any point.

"Carriers do adjust their schedules and they adjust them based upon operational needs as well as market conditions," said David Castelveter of Air Transport Association.

Since airlines are reeling from high fuel prices, this means ticket prices are taking off. Even worse, airlines are shrinking fleets, lowering capacity and outright canceling service to airports. If an airline cancels your route, you may be switched from a direct flight – to two or more connecting flights to get you to your destination.

"If a flight is canceled, you will get a full refund. But unfortunately, you're going to have to buy a ticket on another airline or drive or find another way to get there," said George Hobica of Airfarewatchdog.com.

You may also be re-booked on an earlier or later departure. In Miller's case, his airline worked with him to find other flight times that better fit his needs.

If changes are made to your itinerary, the Air Transport Association says the airline will typically contact you. However, it's always a good idea to check on your reservation yourself either online or by phone before.

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