Best way to deal with connecting flights when you are delayed is to let the flight crew know what flight number your connection flight carries. I have had delays announced before my plane left the runway, I informed the flight crew, and they had another connection set up for me by the time the plane landed. The main things to remember is that what ever the problem your having with the airline: 1) It is NOT the flight attendant's fault, yelling at him or her will not make you want to help you more. 2) If you don't let them know you are having an issue, they can't help you. Fight Attendants do not stop to check every passenger for connecting flights, they do not have esp to know that are in desperate need of some water, or a trip to the restroom. You will be amazed what a polite question or two will accomplish, epically in an Industry where there is normally so much hostility directed at the staff.