Over 13,500 flights canceled as brutal winter storm hits US airports

Washington DC: The National Weather Service reported that snow, sleet, and freezing rain threaten nearly 180 million people — over half the U.S. population — as the storm moves from the South into the Northeast. Cities from Washington, D.C., to New York and Boston are expected to receive 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimeters) of snow.

According to flight-tracking site FlightAware, more than 13,500 flights were canceled across the U.S. since Saturday, with roughly 9,600 of those scheduled for Sunday. Aviation analytics company Cirium reported that Sunday will see the highest cancellation rate since the pandemic, with over 29% of all departing U.S. flights axed.

Major airports facing significant disruptions include Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, where 97% of departures (414 flights) were canceled, Dallas-Fort Worth, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Atlanta — home to the nation’s busiest airport — as well as New York’s JFK and LaGuardia airports.

Airlines impacted include American Airlines with over 1,400 cancellations, Delta and Southwest with roughly 1,000 each, United Airlines with more than 800, and JetBlue with over 560 flights canceled, representing about 70% of its schedule.

Travelers are advised to contact airline customer service, check online for alternate flights, and be aware of their rights. Passengers whose flights are canceled are legally entitled to full refunds, including non-refundable tickets and unused services such as baggage fees or seat upgrades. Airlines may offer travel credits, but passengers can still request refunds if they choose not to travel.

The storm highlights the ongoing challenges U.S. airlines face in maintaining schedules during extreme weather events and emphasizes the importance of checking flight status and preparing for travel disruptions during winter storms.
(With AP inputs)