Major U.S. airlines have issued widespread travel waivers as a significant winter storm is set to bring heavy snow, sleet, and dangerous ice across at least two dozen states. The severe weather threatens to cause extensive disruptions to air travel across a large portion of the country this weekend.
The National Weather Service has warned that a combination of freezing rain, sleet, and snow will make travel hazardous. This could also lead to power outages and tree damage, particularly in parts of the Southeast. Heavier snowfall is expected further north.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. airlines issue broad travel waivers for severe winter storm.
- Thousands of flights likely to be canceled or delayed this weekend.
- Delta, Southwest, American, United, JetBlue, Frontier, and Spirit offer rebooking flexibility.
- Travelers should monitor flight status and use airline apps for updates.
Airlines Brace for Major Disruptions
Airlines are preparing for substantial operational challenges. Delta Air Lines, for example, canceled flights at select airports in five states on Thursday afternoon. Carriers anticipate that a mix of ice, snow, and strong winds will slow airport operations. This will lead to a ripple effect of delays and cancellations.
Rebooking during this period could be complex, as it falls within one of the busier winter travel times. AccuWeather, a weather forecasting company, noted that temperatures are expected to drop to levels not seen since 2021.
"This will likely result in thousands of flight cancellations on Saturday, Sunday and Monday," said Dan DePodwin, vice president of forecasting operations at AccuWeather.
Storm Impact Data
- 24+ States: Expected to be affected by the winter storm.
- 15,000+ Flights: Estimated to be delayed due to the storm, according to Hopper.
- 17% Increase: In travelers adding Disruption Assistance to trips for the upcoming weekend.
Flexible Rebooking Options Available
Several major airlines are offering flexible rebooking options to help passengers manage the impending disruptions. Southwest Airlines expects widespread issues across the South and East. They are giving customers the flexibility to rebook or travel standby within a two-week window.
Delta also stated that weather could impact flights across the Southern Plains and Southeast. This includes its major hub in Atlanta. The airline has already canceled flights in North Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee. Delta plans to automatically rebook customers to the next available itinerary. They are also offering fee-free changes for eligible customers who adjust their travel within the waiver terms.
Specific Airline Waivers
American Airlines has expanded similar flexibility across its network. This includes major hubs such as Dallas-Fort Worth and Charlotte. United Airlines issued a waiver covering much of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, as well as parts of the Carolinas and Ohio Valley. This includes its operations in Newark and the Washington area. Affected customers can shift their travel within a set period without change fees or fare differences, provided they keep the same itinerary and cabin.
JetBlue issued a waiver focused on the Northeast, covering airports in the New York and Boston areas. They will waive change and cancel fees for customers traveling to and from 11 cities. Ultra-low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines announced that if flights are canceled or delayed for more than three hours domestically or six hours internationally, travelers can request a refund. Spirit Airlines is waiving modification charges and fare differences across 13 cities for travel between January 23 and 25.
Preparing for Winter Travel
The winter storm is forecast to bring severe conditions, including freezing rain and heavy snow. These conditions not only affect air travel but also make road travel dangerous. Power outages are a significant concern, especially in areas prone to ice accumulation. Travelers should ensure they have emergency kits ready and monitor local weather advisories.
Travelers Advised to Stay Informed
Airlines are strongly urging travelers to monitor their flight status closely. They recommend using mobile apps and airline websites for the fastest rebooking options as the storm progresses. Many travelers are already taking steps to prepare for potential disruptions.
The travel booking app Hopper reported a 17% increase in travelers adding Disruption Assistance to their trips for this upcoming weekend. This indicates a growing awareness and concern among the traveling public.
"Even in locations far away from the storm, such as the West Coast hubs, Denver, Chicago and Minneapolis, ripple effects of this widespread travel-halting winter storm will be felt," DePodwin added.
The widespread nature of this storm means that even airports not directly in its path could experience delays and cancellations. This is due to aircraft and crew being out of position. Passengers with travel plans over the weekend and into early next week should check with their airline regularly for the latest updates.
- Check flight status frequently.
- Use airline mobile apps for rebooking.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance.
- Have a backup plan for accommodation or transportation.
