Winter Storm Triggers Pandemic-Level Flight Cancellations Across U.S.
A significant winter storm has triggered massive flight cancellations across the United States, marking a disruption reminiscent of the early Covid-19 pandemic days. More than 8,230 flight cancellations were reported by Cirium at 9 a.m. Eastern on Sunday, disrupting travel plans for countless passengers.
Flight Cancellations Reach Pandemic Levels
The flight cancellations on Sunday are among the highest since April 2, 2020. On that date, 8,606 flights were canceled due to the initial wave of pandemic lockdowns. According to Cirium, the latest cancellations represent nearly 35% of all scheduled departures in the U.S. for the day.
Historical Context
- Record cancellations occurred on March 30, 2020, with 12,143 flights affected.
- On Sunday, data from FlightAware indicated over 10,000 cancellations, incorporating international flights as well.
Key Airports Affected by the Storm
Major airports in several cities have faced significant disruptions. Airports in the following cities reported hundreds of canceled flights:
- New York
- Washington
- Chicago
- Dallas
- Atlanta
- Charlotte, N.C.
Moreover, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced the closure of about a dozen smaller regional airports due to the severe weather. Notable closures included:
- New Haven Tweed Airport (Connecticut)
- Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (South Carolina)
The winter storm’s impact has been felt nationwide, creating a challenging situation for travelers and airlines alike. As conditions continue to evolve, further updates on flight statuses are anticipated.
