A severe winter storm is disrupting air travel in the United States this weekend, leading to over 8,000 flight cancellations as severe snow and ice are forecasted to affect regions from Massachusetts in the east to New Mexico in the west. According to data from FlightAware, the cancellations span both domestic and international flights, with numbers anticipated to increase as the storm progresses.
Airlines have proactively cancelled or delayed flights across their networks in anticipation of the storm’s impact. As of now, American Airlines has cancelled more than 2,000 flights, while Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have cancelled over 1,000 and 500 flights, respectively, on January 24 alone. This substantial number of cancellations is expected to create significant backlogs for travelers, with congestion likely to persist for several days.
Forecast and Airline Responses
The winter storm is forecasted to bring a mix of snow, ice, and frigid temperatures, affecting a majority of states across the U.S. and parts of Canada. On January 24, over 3,132 flights have been cancelled, with an additional 4,935 cancellations projected for January 25. Airlines are taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. Delta Air Lines, for instance, has cancelled the majority of its flights from North Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee.
To mitigate the impact of the storm, airlines are also increasing service in some areas. American Airlines has added 17 flights to and from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport ahead of the anticipated severe conditions. As travelers scramble to adjust their plans, airlines are urging passengers to stay informed about their flight statuses.
Travel Advisories and Waivers
Given the widespread cancellations, airlines are recommending that travelers check their itineraries before heading to the airport. Weather advisories are evolving, and airlines stress the importance of verifying road conditions and flight statuses. Many carriers, including Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, are offering travel waivers, allowing customers to change their travel plans without penalty.
Delta’s waiver applies to numerous routes covering key airports such as Boston, New York, and Philadelphia, while American Airlines allows changes for flights to or from 34 U.S. airports for travel between January 23 and January 25. United Airlines has also issued a waiver for flights scheduled during the same period from over 30 U.S. airports.
As airlines work to maintain safety and minimize disruptions, travelers are advised to reach out to airlines directly or use their websites and apps for rebooking options. The impact of the storm is not limited to domestic flights, as international travel to and from the U.S. is also expected to be affected, creating a ripple effect across global aviation.
In this challenging weather situation, airlines are taking measures to keep operations running smoothly. Maintaining clear communication and offering flexible travel options will be crucial in helping travelers navigate the disruptions caused by this winter storm.
