My travel is badly delayed and I won't be in on time; I can work remotely from [time] and make up what I miss.
Short notice
Travel disruption at Short Notice: What to Tell Your Boss
When travel disruption comes up with little warning, a calm, specific message about cover matters more than a long apology.
Say what you need, briefly
Delays and cancellations are outside your control. Update early with the impact and a plan — remote, late, or leaving.
Handle short notice well
At short notice, acknowledge the timing briefly, state clearly what you'll leave and when, and name who covers anything urgent. Being specific about cover reassures your manager far more than an apology does.
Example messages
A travel disruption means I need to leave by [time] to deal with it; I'll hand off the urgent bits first.
My journey has been disrupted and I'll be later than planned; I'll keep you posted and cover my priorities.
Mistakes to avoid
Don't over-apologise for the timing or leave cover vague. State the plan clearly and keep it short.
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This page shares wording ideas, not legal or HR advice. Follow your own employer's time-off policy.
Common questions
What if I can still work?
Say so. Offering remote turns a disruption into a simple adjustment.
How do I handle the short notice?
Acknowledge it briefly, be specific about what you'll leave and who covers, then move on.