Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers

Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Navigating Through Flight Delay Claims During European Winter Storm Babet 2024

The recent Winter Storm Babet in 2024 has significantly disrupted air travel across Europe, leaving many passengers stranded and facing flight delays. European regulations provide a framework for passenger rights when flights are significantly delayed or cancelled. This means you might be entitled to compensation, usually based on the distance of the flight, if your delay exceeds a certain threshold. It's crucial to recognize that not every delay warrants compensation; minor disruptions typically won't qualify. However, you are likely entitled to meals or vouchers from the airline if your flight is delayed for a considerable time, at least two hours. When facing delays, remember that each airline has a process for filing claims. Knowing where to find the claim form, often within the customer service section of the airline’s website, will help streamline the process if you are hoping to recoup some costs or receive compensation for the disruption caused by the storm. Successfully navigating through these processes requires being informed about your rights and understanding how to effectively make a claim, a vital skill for any seasoned or novice traveler in today's complex travel environment.

When Winter Storm Babet swept across Europe in 2024, it created a perfect storm of flight disruptions. Wind gusts exceeding 70 mph caused major headaches for airlines and travelers, with some airports grounding half their scheduled flights. While the EU has passenger rights in place to address such situations, the reality can be far more complex.

European laws are designed to protect travelers from significant flight delays or cancellations. If a flight is delayed more than three hours or canceled, airlines are obligated to offer alternative flights or refunds, plus potentially financial compensation. The compensation amount depends on the flight distance, ranging from €250 for short flights to €600 for ultra-long hauls. Importantly, these rules apply to flights within the EU and those arriving in the EU, even when operated by non-EU carriers, as long as an EU airline is involved.

However, travelers need to know when they're eligible. You need a three-hour delay upon arrival or a five-hour delay at departure to qualify for compensation, and the delay must not be due to 'extraordinary circumstances' like severe weather. That said, airlines still have the burden of proving it was unavoidable. In the meantime, for delays exceeding two hours, airlines are obligated to provide food or vouchers.

Furthermore, travelers should be aware that they might be able to claim additional expenses, like accommodation and meals, incurred during the delay or cancellation. Similar rights exist in the UK under their regulations, ensuring some consistency across borders.

The challenge for travelers is in actually knowing how to file a claim. It typically involves finding a claim form on the airline's website within their Customer Service section. It's vital to meticulously document everything—including flight changes, hotel receipts, and delays—as this increases your chances of getting compensation.

While airlines are improving their ability to predict and manage weather-related issues, it remains a challenge. Compensation claims can take time to process, and anecdotal evidence indicates the success rate of claims without proper documentation is poor. One could argue that the whole system is not perfectly suited for such high-impact events.

What else is in this post?

1. Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Navigating Through Flight Delay Claims During European Winter Storm Babet 2024
2. Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - How A Group of Travelers Uncovered A Fake Miles Redemption Scheme in Singapore
3. Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Using Data Analysis to Find The Real Cost of Business Class Tickets to Tokyo
4. Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - What Desert Storm Taught Travelers About Reading Weather Patterns in Dubai
5. Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Breaking Down Complex Airline Alliance Rules for Better Award Tickets
6. Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Why Frequent Flyers Should Question Hotel Program Devaluations
7. Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Making Sense of Conflicting Travel Insurance Claims After Iceland Eruptions

Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - How A Group of Travelers Uncovered A Fake Miles Redemption Scheme in Singapore

In Singapore, a group of travelers stumbled upon a deceptive scheme involving the fraudulent redemption of frequent flyer miles. This incident serves as a potent reminder that critical thinking is essential for navigating the complexities of modern travel. Loyalty programs, with their associated points and miles, are increasingly attractive targets for those seeking to exploit vulnerabilities. Cases of unauthorized access to travel accounts have become more frequent, with some incidents leading to the theft of millions of miles. This Singaporean case specifically saw individuals arrested for hacking into accounts to generate fraudulent airline tickets. The situation underscores the fragility of cybersecurity protections within rewards programs. It's a wake-up call for travelers to remain vigilant and informed about potential risks to their hard-earned airline miles and hotel points. With the increased attention on potential deceptive practices within frequent flyer programs, travelers must rely on their critical thinking skills to protect themselves from becoming unwitting victims.

A group of travelers in Singapore stumbled upon a fraudulent miles redemption scheme, revealing a concerning vulnerability in how these reward programs operate. The scheme, which appears to have leveraged weaknesses in the system's logic, underscores the importance of understanding the intricacies behind these popular loyalty programs.

The sheer number of individuals participating in loyalty programs, now exceeding billions worldwide, has created a massive ecosystem ripe for exploitation. These programs often involve complex point accumulation methods that can be susceptible to manipulation by those who understand the hidden mechanics. Estimates suggest a significant portion of frequent flyer miles remain unredeemed, making them an alluring target for fraudulent schemes. This unclaimed value can entice scammers to devise methods to trick users into disclosing sensitive information, like login credentials, to gain access to these valuable assets.

The Singapore Airlines' KrisFlyer program, with millions of active members, represents a prime target for such scams, due to the sheer volume of data and miles transactions processed through the system. Research indicates that a substantial number of travelers lack a comprehensive understanding of how airline rewards work, leaving them vulnerable to scams that promise impossibly high mileage gains or incredibly easy redemptions. The rise of digital wallets and mobile applications for managing miles, while undeniably convenient, introduces fresh avenues for fraudulent activity. These digital interfaces can be exploited through phishing attacks that aim to steal user credentials.

Phishing scams represent a significant portion of loyalty program fraud cases, in which users are lured into providing sensitive details under false pretenses, such as bogus promotions or forced account updates. While investigations into such scams can be protracted, they often reveal gaps in communication between airlines and customers regarding account security and consumer rights. Furthermore, these issues can further complicate the claim process for those affected. Statistics show that many travelers are targeted by loyalty program scams, a grim reminder of the need to stay informed about fraudulent activities.

Following the exposure of these fraudulent schemes, many airlines have begun strengthening their security practices, incorporating advanced analytics to identify suspicious mileage transactions. The goal is to shield loyal customers from similar exploitations and to bolster the security and integrity of their programs. The incident in Singapore acts as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for travelers to maintain a discerning eye when engaging with these reward systems.

Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Using Data Analysis to Find The Real Cost of Business Class Tickets to Tokyo

Examining business class airfares to Tokyo through the lens of data analysis reveals a fascinating picture of pricing dynamics. While a one-way business class ticket might set you back between $1,100 and $1,800, economy class options can be had for as little as $400. This substantial difference raises questions about the true value proposition of business class travel, especially considering the variable nature of ticket pricing.

Further investigation demonstrates that the cost of business class to Tokyo can be significantly reduced by leveraging frequent flyer miles. In some instances, roundtrip business class fares can be secured for just a few thousand miles more than a similar economy ticket on a domestic flight. This showcases how a well-planned approach to accumulating and redeeming miles can create significant value for travelers.

However, we need to be mindful that airfare pricing is influenced by multiple factors, including market demand and airline competition. This dynamic landscape means prices constantly fluctuate. Understanding the underlying forces at play becomes vital for travelers who want to make smart choices. The combination of critical thinking and data-driven analysis helps travelers make informed decisions when it comes to air travel, ensuring they aren't falling prey to inflated fares or overlooking potential opportunities for cost savings.

Examining the true cost of a business class ticket to Tokyo involves more than just looking at the initial price tag. Airlines employ intricate pricing models that adjust fares dynamically based on factors like current demand, departure dates, and even competitor pricing. This means that prices can fluctuate dramatically, making it crucial for travelers to stay informed and monitor trends.

Often, even within business class, there are different fare classes, each with a unique set of perks, like mileage accrual or upgrade possibilities. Understanding these nuances can be vital for optimizing value. For instance, research suggests that Tuesdays or Wednesdays might be the optimal days to secure a business class ticket, as airlines tend to offer discounts to maximize seat occupancy.

However, the initial fare might not be the end of the story. Airlines frequently tack on extra charges for amenities like baggage, seat selection, or onboard meals. This can inflate the final price significantly. Being mindful of these hidden costs is essential.

Business class fares often come with a hefty dose of reward miles due to their higher price points. This allows savvy travelers to potentially offset future flights with accumulated points. Another intriguing aspect is the availability of upgrade opportunities from economy class to business class, typically closer to the departure date. Comparing the cost of an upgrade with buying a full-price business class ticket can lead to substantial savings.

Data analysis reveals seasonal trends in business class travel. During peak periods like summer or holidays, demand is high, consequently driving up prices. Being aware of these patterns allows travelers to potentially plan trips during less-crowded times, securing better fares.

A closer look into business traveler preferences sheds light on their priorities. Factors like comfort, in-flight connectivity, and dining quality play a major role in their decisions. Matching the airline to a traveler's needs based on what matters most to them can help identify those that provide the most valuable business class experience.

A distinction between domestic and international business class travel is also relevant. Business class on long-haul international flights usually offers a vastly superior experience compared to domestic flights. Thus, understanding the route and evaluating the associated amenities relative to the cost becomes even more crucial.

Interestingly, research suggests booking business class tickets well in advance can result in significant savings, sometimes even up to 30% less than booking last minute. This demonstrates that planning ahead can be a game-changer for achieving travel goals while maximizing value.

Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - What Desert Storm Taught Travelers About Reading Weather Patterns in Dubai

The recent deluge of rain in Dubai, a region not typically known for heavy rainfall, served as a harsh lesson for travelers about understanding local weather patterns. The storms, which originated in Oman before impacting the UAE, caused severe flooding, widespread power outages, and major flight disruptions at Dubai International Airport. This unexpected weather event created a considerable disruption for many travelers, underscoring the value of critical thinking when facing unforeseen travel challenges.

The severity of the storm, which brought more rain in a single day than typically falls in a whole year, highlighted the unpredictability of the weather in the region. The incident prompted reflection on the increasing impact of climate change on even traditionally arid environments. For travelers heading to Dubai or other desert destinations, this event serves as a compelling reminder to diligently monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for unexpected shifts in conditions. Understanding the local climate and remaining adaptable can contribute significantly to a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience. It's a compelling illustration of how being aware of environmental factors plays a vital role in ensuring a well-planned and successful trip.

### What Desert Storm Taught Travelers About Reading Weather Patterns in Dubai


The recent deluge of rain in Dubai, a region not known for such events, offered a stark reminder of how quickly weather patterns can change, especially in desert environments. While typically associated with arid conditions and clear skies, Dubai's experience showcases the importance of understanding local weather phenomena for travelers.

Heavy rainfall and associated flooding significantly impacted the city, disrupting flights, infrastructure, and daily life. The event prompted discussions regarding the impact of climate change on regions accustomed to predictable weather cycles. In the aftermath, analyzing the specifics of the storm—its intensity, wind speeds, and rapid shifts in conditions—can inform future travel decisions.

This storm highlighted the importance of checking weather forecasts before travel. The initial storm hit neighboring Oman before impacting Dubai, underscoring the necessity of paying attention to regional weather patterns and not just Dubai itself. Wind gusts during these storms can be extremely strong, reaching speeds that pose challenges to aircraft during takeoff and landing. Travelers must understand how strong winds can delay or cancel flights.

Moreover, travelers should be prepared for drastic reductions in visibility due to sand or dust that can accompany storms. This is especially crucial for air travel, as the reduced visibility can cause significant flight delays or cancellations. Following a storm, temperatures can drop suddenly and dramatically, emphasizing the need for adaptable clothing choices in the desert environment.

Dubai's unique urban landscape creates diverse microclimates. Understanding that weather patterns in one part of the city can differ considerably from others is essential. Building design is often a response to the specific weather patterns in a location, and Dubai is no exception. Travelers can be more comfortable when traveling if they understand the interplay of weather and design, especially during unusual weather events.

Furthermore, sandstorms are a real concern for outdoor activities and can necessitate changes in itinerary. Travelers should learn about the protocols and practices in place to ensure their safety. These events should inform choices about travel insurance. A broader perspective on weather patterns, climate change, and their impact on travel should be integrated into pre-trip planning to ensure more robust contingency plans are available.

These insights highlight that understanding weather patterns, localized weather changes, and potential implications for travel arrangements is a valuable skill for travelers navigating diverse environments like Dubai. It shows that even places seemingly known for predictable weather can be susceptible to dramatic shifts that necessitate adaptable travel plans.

Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Breaking Down Complex Airline Alliance Rules for Better Award Tickets

Airline alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, and Oneworld have revolutionized how travelers earn and use miles for flights. They bring together a large group of airlines, allowing you to collect miles across them and use those miles for tickets on any participating airline. While this seems simple, the rules for redeeming these miles can be quite complex. Each alliance has its own set of regulations, including specific benefits for frequent flyers and restrictions on how you can use your miles.

Understanding these rules is essential to finding the best value for your miles. You need to consider the alliances' hub airports, which can be crucial for building an itinerary when direct flights aren't available. Also, you have to pay attention to how award tickets are priced, as there can be unexpected variations based on the specific route and time of year. Promotions and sales on award tickets can be quite valuable. Codeshare flights, where airlines share resources on a single route, also factor into this complicated system.

Ultimately, it comes down to a traveler's ability to critically evaluate the specifics of each alliance to optimize their frequent flyer experience. You might find that understanding how to strategically navigate through these intricacies helps you unlock hidden opportunities and maximize the value of your hard-earned miles. It's another example of how being an informed traveler can lead to better, more affordable trips.

Global air travel is increasingly intertwined through airline alliances, forming intricate webs of partnerships that can both simplify and complicate the process of securing award tickets. These alliances, primarily Star Alliance, SkyTeam, and Oneworld, encompass nearly 60 airlines, collectively handling a large portion of international flights. While the concept of earning and redeeming miles across various member airlines sounds appealing, it introduces complexities that can be challenging for even the most seasoned traveler.

One core aspect is the variety of redemption rules unique to each alliance. Some programs demand advance booking, sometimes months ahead, to secure award flights, which can be significantly limited during periods of high demand. Booking award tickets can lead to unexpected costs, such as taxes, fees, and fuel surcharges, which can drastically increase the final price, especially on longer routes. For instance, transatlantic journeys might face surcharges that negate the value of the miles spent.

Understanding alliance benefits can be a key to maximizing travel rewards. The opportunity to use the miles of one airline to book on a partner airline is a major benefit, but availability can fluctuate significantly. Strategic planning is often needed to optimize the desired travel route. Flexibility is crucial when searching for award tickets. Changing travel dates by even a single day can substantially impact the number of miles needed, sometimes reducing them by thousands, demonstrating how adaptability can lead to significant savings.

Furthermore, programs often have off-peak award calendars, presenting opportunities to reduce the miles needed for travel by a remarkable 50%. Keeping track of these calendars can be key to a traveler's success. However, award pricing is not always fixed. Many programs now implement dynamic pricing models, influencing the number of miles needed depending on factors such as the route, the time of booking, and demand for that flight. Travelers need to consistently check for the most advantageous prices.

Airline alliance programs feature so-called "sweet spots", specific routes or classes of service where the value of the miles far surpasses standard market fares. Understanding where these "sweet spots" are located can lead to travel bargains. Another possibility that alliances offer are round-the-world tickets, granting access to a network of destinations for a lower price than many traditional tickets. It's not unusual that travelers face challenges with award ticket changes and cancellations. Some airlines permit changes without penalties while others impose considerable costs, significantly affecting travel plans. Thus, awareness of the specific policies is vital.

Often, the availability of flights for redemption does not match the desired itinerary. Award seats might be open on one alliance airline but fully booked on another within the same alliance. This necessitates advanced planning and critical thinking to optimize the entire travel journey. Navigating these intricacies necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the alliance programs and the specific rules that govern each program, highlighting why a mastery of critical thinking becomes paramount when planning travel using airline miles and points.

Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Why Frequent Flyers Should Question Hotel Program Devaluations

Frequent travelers who diligently accumulate hotel points should closely examine the recent trends of hotel loyalty program devaluations. Hotel chains, under increasing scrutiny by regulatory bodies, have introduced complex adjustments to their programs. These adjustments frequently reduce the value of previously earned rewards, making it more challenging to redeem points for desirable stays. This often raises questions among loyal customers about the true worth of their accumulated points.

Moreover, the frequent and often unexplained changes to program rules can be frustrating. A lack of clear communication about these adjustments can create a sense of mistrust and undermine the value proposition of these programs.

Travelers who understand how these programs work, and who are comfortable asking questions about the reasoning behind the changes, can more effectively safeguard their accumulated rewards and optimize their travel experiences. By mastering the art of critical assessment of program changes, travelers are better equipped to navigate this evolving loyalty landscape.

Hotel loyalty programs, while seemingly designed to reward frequent guests, can sometimes undergo changes that reduce the value of accumulated points, a phenomenon known as devaluation. This can happen through various means, such as altering the point requirements for a given room or changing the tier status of a hotel, making it necessary for travelers to spend more points to obtain the same rewards.

Many travelers aren't fully aware of how these programs function. Studies suggest a significant portion of hotel guests lack a deep understanding of the intricate details associated with these programs, making them more vulnerable to the repercussions of devaluations. They might not immediately realize that the value of their points has decreased.

Economic conditions can also contribute to this. During periods of economic uncertainty, hotel chains may adjust their programs as a means to navigate market shifts and potentially increase revenue. These adjustments can take the form of devaluations, making it crucial for travelers to monitor broader trends within the industry.

At times, hotels implement promotions that superficially seem beneficial. They might offer a bonus for earning points, but these bonuses can sometimes be coupled with hidden increases in the redemption requirements for specific rewards. It's important for frequent guests to question the long-term value of these promotions to ensure they're not getting caught in a cycle of accumulating points while their actual worth erodes.

The scope of benefits within loyalty programs extends beyond hotel stays. Many programs allow travelers to redeem points for experiences like dining, flights, or spa treatments. However, the value of these redemptions isn't always consistent. A thoughtful evaluation of these options can reveal that using a flexible strategy for redeeming points can lead to more appealing travel experiences, rather than being confined to one specific reward category.

Analyzing past data can provide insights into how a particular loyalty program evolves over time. Data analysis tools now exist that allow travelers to track historical point values for specific properties or chains. By observing patterns of devaluation, travelers can gain a better understanding of the rate and frequency at which these changes occur. This can empower them to plan ahead and possibly time their bookings strategically.

Psychology can play a significant role in how travelers perceive these programs. Some get fixated on achieving a certain elite status or tier, leading them to overlook changes that ultimately diminish the value of their status. This highlights the need to continually evaluate the tangible benefits associated with such status rather than relying on the mere prestige of reaching a particular tier.

Devaluations can impact various regions differently. Tourism patterns and local economic conditions can influence how frequently and how severely a chain devalues points in a particular area. Understanding these regional variances can help travelers use their points more strategically and avoid areas that might see a rapid decline in point value.

Blackout dates, commonly used during peak travel seasons, pose a challenge for frequent guests. These limitations effectively reduce the number of available dates for using points, thereby reducing the value of accumulated points. Recognizing the potential for these constraints and adapting booking strategies can mitigate their impact and ensure travel options remain within reach.

Credit cards often offer perks that are tied to hotel loyalty programs. Frequent guests paying annual fees for these cards need to regularly re-assess whether the value of the program's evolving benefits aligns with the recurring fees. Changes in point value could render the benefits less worthwhile.


By applying critical thinking to these various aspects of hotel loyalty programs, travelers can position themselves to make more informed choices. They can be better prepared to navigate the complex landscape of devaluation dynamics and ensure that their accumulated rewards deliver genuine value.

Why Every Traveler Must Master Critical Thinking 7 Real-World Examples from Frequent Flyers - Making Sense of Conflicting Travel Insurance Claims After Iceland Eruptions

The recent volcanic eruption in Iceland, specifically on the Reykjanes Peninsula, has brought travel insurance claims back into the spotlight. This eruption, similar to the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, caused numerous flight cancellations and travel disruptions. Travelers who found themselves in this situation had to grapple with the complexities of their travel insurance, wondering if they would be compensated. This experience highlights the importance of understanding what your specific insurance policy covers as every policy is different. It's worth emphasizing that not all policies cover volcanic eruptions, and some may have restrictions and limits.

The claim process requires meticulous attention to detail. It's vital that you keep careful track of your expenses, receipts, and documentation. This will strengthen your claim and increase your chances of being reimbursed for any non-refundable costs. Be careful not to overstate your losses when filing a claim as exaggerated claims can get denied. There's a range of possible benefits that may apply during a volcanic eruption, such as trip cancellation or interruption, missed connections, delays, or even emergency evacuations. It's crucial to thoroughly review your policy to determine what is covered.

In the end, it’s clear that understanding the intricacies of your travel insurance policy is fundamental to effective claim management in challenging circumstances like volcanic eruptions. Travelers who proactively analyze the terms and conditions of their policy are well-positioned to make informed decisions and advocate for a fair outcome during unforeseen events. Essentially, mastering the art of critical thinking and thoroughly evaluating your travel insurance can be the difference between a hassle-free claim process or a frustrating experience.

Iceland, a land of dramatic landscapes and geothermal wonders, also happens to be a hotbed of volcanic activity. Eruptions occur roughly every four to five years, creating ripples that disrupt air travel across a large swath of Europe and beyond. These events can ground thousands of flights, leaving a trail of frustrated travelers.

After the major eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in 2010, a wave of travel insurance claims followed. A significant portion of these claims, around 65%, were initially rejected due to the vagueness of policies and the concept of 'extraordinary circumstances'. While travelers might think that travel insurance provides a safety net, the fine print often contains loopholes and exclusions for natural disasters. This underlines the importance of meticulously reviewing your policy before travel, particularly in regions known for volcanic activity.

Volcanic ash isn't just an aesthetic nuisance; it's a hazard to aircraft engines. Even small amounts of ash can cause considerable damage and create visibility issues, forcing airlines to proactively cancel flights. Understandably, this causes a cascading effect, leading to delays and frustration for travelers. But it's also essential to acknowledge that this caution stems from a need to protect the aircraft and passengers.

Unfortunately, many travelers are unprepared for such disruptions. Following an Icelandic eruption, surveys showed that roughly half of all impacted travelers weren't aware of their rights or how to pursue insurance claims. This demonstrates a need for better information regarding travel rights, insurance provisions, and overall emergency procedures for travelers.

The aftermath of an Icelandic eruption can be a long and winding process, especially regarding insurance claims. Historically, it took 3 to 6 months on average for claims to be processed. Maintaining meticulous records – dates, times, correspondence with airlines, etc. – becomes crucial for supporting your claims. This can be frustrating but, based on historical data, increases your chances of getting approved considerably.

Iceland has invested in advanced technology for ash dispersion modeling and monitoring. This offers a better understanding of ash distribution and impact, influencing airline decisions and claim assessment. However, many travelers don't realize the extent of these technologies, which could empower them to prepare for potential disruptions or to build stronger claims.

The insurance market itself has responded to such disruptions. Travel insurance policy sales have surged following high-profile events, indicating that awareness is growing. However, insurance markets can also present a confusing landscape due to differing policies and coverage levels.

Further complicating matters, different airlines have diverse policies when it comes to cancellations and refunds. While some may provide full refunds, others might opt for vouchers or credits, potentially adding another layer of complexity to insurance claims.

Finally, there's the crucial element of documentation. Statistics indicate that travelers who maintain detailed records are about 70% more likely to succeed with their insurance claims. This reinforces the importance of careful planning, diligent documentation, and thorough understanding of policies in order to protect oneself from unforeseen travel disruptions and to confidently navigate complex claim processes.