Ongoing winter storms across the United States have wreaked havoc on air travel, affecting a range of major international and domestic airlines, including United, Qatar Airways, American Airlines, KLM, Emirates, Delta, JetBlue, Air Canada, and Air France. More than 2,000 flights have been either canceled or delayed, as snow and icy conditions cripple key hubs, particularly in the Northeast.
Impact on Major Airports
Airports in the Northeast have been the focal point of disruptions, with several experiencing high numbers of cancellations and delays:
- Newark Liberty International Airport has seen 241 cancellations and 69 delays, with United Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines being significantly affected.
- LaGuardia Airport reported 200 cancellations and 55 delays, impacting airlines such as Endeavor Air, Republic Airlines, and SkyWest Airlines.
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) had 133 cancellations and 107 delays, with JetBlue at the forefront of disruptions.
- Boston Logan International Airport also faced significant disruptions, with 118 cancellations and 67 delays, primarily affecting JetBlue and Republic Airlines.
Airlines Struggling to Maintain Operations
Several major airlines are facing operational challenges:
- JetBlue Airways: The airline is experiencing the highest number of cancellations, particularly at JFK and Boston Logan.
- United Airlines: Widespread cancellations at Newark Liberty are causing further congestion at other airports.
- American Airlines: The airline is facing delays across key hubs, leading to further challenges for passengers.
- Qatar Airways: Weather-related disruptions have hindered operations, affecting their U.S. routes.
- Delta Air Lines: Numerous delays have been reported, contributing to the ongoing travel chaos.
- Emirates and Air Canada: Both airlines have encountered significant delays due to snow and icy runways.
Further Disruptions Expected
The weather-related disruptions are expected to continue as a new winter storm approaches the Deep South, potentially impacting major hubs such as Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL). Airlines and airport authorities are preparing for more cancellations and delays in the coming days as icy conditions affect flight operations.
Traveler Advice
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has reminded passengers of their rights under federal law, including refunds for canceled flights. Travelers are advised to:
- Stay updated through airline apps and websites for real-time flight status.
- Rebook flights proactively to avoid extended delays.
- Allow extra time for travel and monitor weather forecasts at both departure and destination airports.
As winter storms continue to affect air travel across the country, airlines and airport officials are working diligently to address the disruptions. With more than 2,000 flights already affected, passengers are urged to remain flexible and prepared for ongoing travel delays in the coming days.
