Winter Storm Triggers Record Flight Cancellations, Plunging Travel Into Chaos
A significant winter storm impacted travel across the United States, resulting in unprecedented flight cancellations. On a single day, airlines canceled over 11,000 flights, marking the highest total since the pandemic began, according to FlightAware.com.
Storm Overview
The winter storm affected areas from the Southern Rockies to New England. Heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain contributed to the chaos. An additional 3,600 flight cancellations were already reported for Monday, demonstrating the storm’s ongoing effects.
Major Impact on Airports
Airports in several key cities experienced severe disruptions:
- Ronald Reagan National Airport (Washington, D.C.): All flights were canceled, urging travelers to remain at home.
- LaGuardia Airport (New York City): Closed Sunday afternoon with over 90% of flights canceled.
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport: Operated on a reduced schedule; crews were busy treating runways and roads for safety.
- Atlanta, Charlotte, and Philadelphia: Also faced significant disruptions during the storm.
Airlines Affected
American Airlines experienced the most substantial impact, followed by United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. In light of the chaotic conditions, several airlines issued waivers. These allow travelers to modify their plans without facing penalties.
Looking Ahead
The low-pressure system that caused the storm is expected to continue moving east. Anticipated weather patterns include:
- More snowfall in the Northeast and Appalachians.
- Freezing rain in the Mid-Atlantic region.
- Rain along the Southeast coast.
Travelers should remain vigilant and stay informed about ongoing weather conditions as they plan their routes in the coming days.
