Severe winter weather across the United States is causing widespread flight cancellations, impacting thousands of travelers and major airlines. Etihad Airways and Emirates have both announced significant disruptions to their schedules, particularly affecting flights to and from the US. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates and rebooking options as the storm continues to move eastward.
The disruptions began on Saturday and are expected to continue through Sunday and potentially into Monday, with the hardest-hit areas including Texas, the mid-Atlantic, and the northeastern United States. More than 2,700 flights have been cancelled as of Sunday, according to flight tracking data, leaving passengers stranded and creating logistical challenges for airlines. Etihad is assisting affected passengers with rebooking or full refunds.
Etihad Airways and Emirates Respond to Flight Cancellations
Etihad Airways has cancelled multiple flights due to the severe weather conditions impacting travel to and from the United States. The airline is proactively assisting passengers affected by the flight cancellations, offering rebooking on alternative flights or providing full refunds. Passengers are encouraged to ensure their contact information is current on the Etihad website to receive timely updates via SMS or email.
Additionally, Etihad’s call center (+971 600 555 666), website (etihad.com), and mobile app are available for passengers seeking the latest information. The airline emphasized that the safety and comfort of both passengers and crew remain its top priority, and it has issued an apology for the inconvenience caused by the disruptions.
Impact on Connecting Flights
The disruptions are not limited to direct flights. Emirates also cancelled numerous flights to and from the US, and customers connecting through Dubai on these cancelled flights were not permitted to begin their journeys at their original departure points. This cascading effect highlights the interconnected nature of global air travel and the potential for widespread disruption when major hubs are affected.
Widespread US Travel Disruption
The winter storm, which initially impacted the southwestern and central regions of the US, is now sweeping across the mid-Atlantic and northeastern states, stretching from New Mexico to the Eastern seaboard. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for heavy snow, ice, and strong winds across a vast area. This severe weather is the primary driver of the current travel delays.
Dallas, Texas, is experiencing some of the most significant disruptions. Over 65% of flights from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and more than 60% from Dallas Love Field have been cancelled. American Airlines, headquartered in Fort Worth, cancelled nearly 20% of its Saturday flights, and further cancellations are anticipated.
Major Airport Impacts
Beyond Dallas, several other major airports are bracing for substantial disruptions. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, a major hub for Delta Air Lines, is expected to face severe challenges. Reagan National Airport in Washington DC, and Baltimore/Washington International Airport are also anticipating significant impacts from the storm. These airports handle a large volume of passengers, meaning cancellations will affect a considerable number of travelers.
However, the impact isn’t solely confined to these major hubs. Smaller regional airports are also reporting cancellations and delays as the storm system moves eastward. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is monitoring the situation closely and implementing measures to manage air traffic flow and minimize disruptions where possible.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing demand for air travel, particularly during the holiday season. This high demand means that rebooking options are limited, and passengers may face extended delays in reaching their destinations. Airlines are working to accommodate affected passengers, but the scale of the disruption presents a significant logistical challenge.
Looking ahead, the storm is expected to continue moving eastward throughout Sunday and into Monday. Passengers with upcoming flights to or from affected areas should closely monitor their airline’s website or app for updates and be prepared for potential cancellations or delays. The extent of the disruption will depend on the storm’s track and intensity, and further updates will be provided as the situation evolves. The focus remains on ensuring passenger safety and minimizing the impact of these airline disruptions.
The next 24-48 hours will be critical in assessing the full extent of the storm’s impact on air travel. Passengers should continue to check with their airlines for the latest information and be prepared for potential further changes to their travel plans.
