"Jumping the gun" is an idiom meaning to do something too soon, before the proper time or without proper planning or consideration. It implies acting hastily or prematurely. The phrase originates from the idea of a runner starting a race before the starting gun is fired.
The idiom comes from the visual of a runner taking off before the starting gun, giving them an unfair advantage and disrupting the race.
It's important to distinguish "jumping the gun" from "sticking to your guns," which means maintaining your opinion or decision despite opposition
Strike action by CUPE, the union representing 10,000 flight attendants at Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge, began Saturday, August 16 at 01:00 ET. Gabor Lukacs, president of Air Passenger Rights, says passengers should not rush to rebook flights or spend money on alternative travel unless it’s absolutely necessary.
“Relax at this point. There is nothing you can or should do other than perhaps just exploring what other flights may be available to you on the day that you’re coming back,” Lukacs told CTV News. “I would not incur any expenses at this point unless your travel is incredibly time-sensitive, like a medical appointment or a court hearing.”
Under Canadian law, he explains, Air Canada is obligated to provide alternate transportation if a strike leads to cancellations, even if it means booking passengers on competing carriers such as WestJet or Porter.
“They cannot simply wash their hands and tell you, ‘Sorry you are out of luck.’ That is not an option under the law,” he said. “If they fail to do so, and you can book on another airline for the same day or next day, you can make Air Canada pay for that expense. But don’t jump the gun — wait until the airline cancels your flight.”
He also cautions passengers against accepting a refund too quickly.
“It’s a trap,” he said. “If you accept a refund, then Air Canada can wash its hands from your alternate transportation. I would say, ‘No, I am not accepting a refund. I am insisting that you provide alternate transportation.’”
“Don’t pre-emptively do anything yourself, and don’t accept a refund unless you’ve decided you are not going anywhere,” he said. “Those are the two most common mistakes passengers make.”
