Canada Flight Chaos: Air Canada, WestJet Cancel 204 Flights, Delay 52
Severe winter weather has caused significant disruptions in air travel across Canada. On January 23, 2026, numerous airlines, including Air Canada, Jazz, and WestJet, cancelled a total of 204 flights and delayed 52 others. The primary culprits for these cancellations were heavy snowfall and strong winds affecting major airports throughout the country.
Airlines and Flights Affected by Weather
The challenging weather conditions left many travelers stranded as visibility deteriorated. Several Canadian cities, including Toronto, Winnipeg, Ottawa, and Calgary, faced substantial flight disruptions. Below is a breakdown of the impact on major airlines:
| Airline | Cancelled Flights (#) | Cancelled Flights (%) | Delayed Flights (#) | Delayed Flights (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Canada | 68 | 12% | 132 | 22% |
| Jazz | 58 | 15% | 41 | 10% |
| WestJet | 6 | 3% | 84 | 9% |
Major Airports Affected
Air travel disruptions primarily hit several critical airports, leading to widespread flight cancellations and delays:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): 77 cancelled (14%), 8 delayed (1%)
- Calgary International Airport (YYC): 9 cancelled (3%), 8 delayed (2%)
- Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL): 7 cancelled (2%), 10 delayed (2%)
- Vancouver International Airport (YVR): 7 cancelled (1%), 12 delayed (2%)
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW): 8 cancelled (5%)
- Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT): 4 cancelled (10%)
Challenges Faced by Airlines
Airlines dealt with multiple issues during this winter storm. Key factors included:
- Heavy snowfall across southern Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes.
- Strong gusty winds, reducing visibility for takeoffs and landings.
- Ice accumulation on runways, creating hazardous conditions.
- Lengthy de-icing procedures, causing delays.
Advice for Affected Travelers
Passengers facing delays or cancellations should consider the following:
- Stay Updated: Check airline apps or websites for real-time flight status.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Receive notifications for any flight changes.
- Know Your Rights: Understand your entitlements for cancellations or delays.
- Explore Alternatives: Look into different travel options if delays are extensive.
- Prepare for Long Waits: Bring snacks and entertainment for extended airport stays.
The ongoing winter weather continues to pose a challenge for air travel in Canada. As airlines strive to resume regular operations, travelers must remain vigilant and adaptable. Staying informed and patient is essential as weather disruptions may persist. For further updates, keep checking Filmogaz.com for the latest information on flights and travel advice.
