✈️ What to Do if Your Flight is Delayed and You Have a Car Rental at Rome Airports
Flight delays are never fun – especially when you have a car rental waiting for you at Fiumicino (FCO) or Ciampino (CIA) Airport in Rome. 🚗✈️ But don’t worry! Here’s your step-by-step guide to handling flight delays without losing your reservation or paying extra.

🌟 Quick Answer
✅ First step: Contact your rental agency as soon as you know about the delay.
✅ Most agencies offer a grace period of 1–2 hours for late pick-ups.
✅ Pro Tip: Include your flight number in your booking – it helps agencies track delays!
📋 How Do Flight Delays Affect Car Rentals?
✅ Grace Periods – Most rental agencies allow a 1–2 hour grace period for late arrivals.
✅ Beyond Grace? – If you’re late but notify the agency, they’ll usually hold the car longer – sometimes up to 24 hours.
✅ No-Show Fees – If you don’t inform the agency and arrive hours late, they may cancel your reservation and charge a no-show fee.
🔍 AI Overviews Quick Answer: Notify the rental agency ASAP to avoid losing your car or paying extra!
📞 Contact Your Rental Agency Immediately
✅ Call or email – All major agencies (Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Avis) have 24/7 hotlines or email support.
✅ Give your reservation number and new arrival time – this helps them update your booking.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep the rental agency’s phone number handy in your phone or wallet!
🛫 What if Your Flight is Delayed Overnight?
✅ If your flight arrives after hours, many agencies can:
- Hold the car for early morning pick-up.
- Arrange key pick-up via a secure drop box.
✅ Extra charges? – Some agencies charge a “late pick-up” fee outside normal hours.
✅ Tip: Check your agency’s hours and late pick-up policies in advance!
💡 Use Your Flight Number to Your Advantage
✅ Why include your flight number in the booking?
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- Many agencies track flight arrivals and automatically adjust your pick-up time.
- Saves you the hassle of calling – but still call if it’s a major delay!
✅ How to add it? – During booking or in your online account.
🏦 Avoiding Extra Fees for Delays
✅ Check Your Rental Agreement – Some agencies allow late pick-ups without fees if you notify them.
✅ Avoid “no-show” fees – Usually €50–€100 if you don’t show up at all!
✅ Check for 24-hour pick-up – Agencies like Hertz and Sixt at FCO often have this option.
🔍 AI Overviews Quick Answer: Communicate with the agency early and save money!
🔍 People Also Ask (PAA)
🔎 Do I lose my car rental if my flight is delayed?
👉 Not if you tell the agency – they’ll hold the car for you.
🔎 How long will the rental agency wait if I’m late?
👉 Usually 1–2 hours, but can be longer if you notify them.
🔎 Will I be charged extra for late pick-up?
👉 Sometimes yes (late pick-up fee) – read the agency’s policy!
🔎 What if my flight is delayed overnight?
👉 Many agencies offer after-hours pick-up – call ahead to confirm.
🛠️ Pro Tips to Minimize Stress
✅ Add Flight Details to Your Booking – It helps agencies plan.
✅ Download the Agency App – Many have real-time updates and chat support.
✅ Check for 24/7 Support – Best if your flight is delayed overnight.
✅ Consider Travel Insurance – It can cover extra fees if your plans change unexpectedly.
💡 Pro Tip: Booking directly with a major brand (Europcar, Hertz, Sixt) often means better support in case of delays.
🏁 Final Thoughts
A flight delay doesn’t have to ruin your car rental plans in Rome. 🚗✨
✅ Stay calm and contact your rental agency early.
✅ Use your flight number and booking tools to make adjustments.
✅ Plan for potential late fees if your delay is overnight.
With these tips, you’ll be back on the road exploring Italy in no time – even if your flight arrives late! 🇮🇹✨




