Travelers across Asia are facing significant flight disruptions today, with hundreds of delays and dozens of cancellations concentrated in China, Japan, and South Asia. Weather systems, seasonal congestion, and operational strains are driving the interruptions.
Current Flight Disruptions (November 26, 2025)
- China–Japan routes: Flight tracker data projects a 21.6% cancellation rate for November 27, with routes from Tianjin, Nanjing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai Pudong to Kansai International Airport hardest hit. Some city pairs are canceling 33%–66% of departures adept.travel.
- China & Japan hubs: Reports show 57 cancellations and over 500 delays affecting passengers in Tokyo and Beijing, with airlines such as Air China, Air Do, and American Airlines impacted Travel And Tour World.
- Airline performance (Asia‑focused carriers):
- Air China: 31 cancellations (1%) and 140 delays (7%) FlightAware.
- Air Do (Japan): 10 cancellations (7%) and 18 delays (13%) FlightAware.
- China Express Airlines: 19 cancellations (4%) and 71 delays (17%) FlightAware.
- Regional hubs:
- Bengaluru (India): 89% of departures delayed, average delay 33 minutes FlightAware.
- Istanbul (Turkey): 77% of departures delayed, average delay 30 minutes FlightAware.
- Almaty (Kazakhstan): Over 65% of flights delayed FlightAware.
Reasons for Disruptions
- Weather systems: The Northeast Monsoon has begun, bringing stronger winds and heavier rainfall across northern ASEAN states.
- La Niña impacts: Seasonal forecasts warn of persistent rains, typhoon threats, and early cold snaps, particularly in East Asia.
- Typhoon aftermath: Earlier in November, Typhoons Kalmaegi and Fung Wong disrupted flights in Vietnam, the Philippines, Laos, and Cambodia, with lingering operational backlogs.
Forecast for Flyers
- East Asia: Expect continued cancellations on China–Japan routes, with up to 22% of flights canceled tomorrow.
- South Asia: Fog and seasonal weather in India are causing near‑90% departure delays at Bengaluru.
- Southeast Asia: Rain showers and residual storm impacts may slow operations in Vietnam and the Philippines.
- Central Asia: Winter weather delays continue in Almaty and surrounding hubs.
Advice for Flyers
- Check flight status frequently: Use airline apps or trackers like FlightAware and Flightradar24.
- Plan buffer time: Add 2–3 hours for connections, especially through China, Japan, and South Asia hubs.
- Monitor weather advisories: Northeast Monsoon rains and La Niña conditions may cause sudden disruptions.
- Use airline waivers: Many carriers are offering free rebooking for affected routes.
- Travel early in the day: Morning flights are statistically less likely to be canceled than evening ones.
Bottom line: Asia’s air travel today is marked by over 500 delays and nearly 60 cancellations, with China–Japan routes facing up to 22% cancellation rates. Flyers should stay flexible, monitor updates closely, and prepare for extended travel times.
