Snowstorm Disrupts US Flights: Over 700 Cancellations

A Winter Travel Challenge

As a potent snowstorm sweeps through the northeastern United States, travelers are facing significant disruptions. The storm, impacting regions from the mid-Atlantic to New England, has already led to over 715 flight cancellations and 1,519 delays as of Sunday morning.

Airlines Scramble to Adjust

United Airlines, grappling with the snowstorm and a Federal Aviation Administration order grounding Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, has canceled 223 flights, roughly 8% of its schedule. Alaska Airlines follows, cancelling 163 flights, 21% of its operations. The grounding of the Boeing 737 MAX 9 affects several airlines, adding complexity to the travel woes.

Know Your Rights

Travelers affected by these disruptions should be aware of their rights. The Department of Transportation offers guidance on compensation and refunds for cancellations and delays. Generally, a refund is due if your flight is canceled and you opt not to travel. For delays, compensation depends on the cause; airlines are liable for issues within their control, but not for "uncontrollable delays" like weather.

Airline Responses

Several airlines, including Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, United, JetBlue, and Spirit, are offering change waivers in the Northeast. These waivers allow for flexible rebooking in light of the severe weather.

Cancellations and Delays: What to Expect

If your flight is canceled, airlines like American, Delta, Hawaiian, and United provide rebooking, meal vouchers, and even hotel accommodations for overnight cancellations. However, policies vary, with carriers like Allegiant, Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit having more limited offerings.

Delayed? Here's What to Know

Significant delays, as defined by each airline, can lead to similar compensations as cancellations. However, the specifics vary by airline and the reason for the delay.

Getting Accurate Information

To check the cause of a delay or cancellation, consult your airline's app or customer service. The FAA website also lists air traffic restrictions, which can be a useful resource.

Seeking Additional Compensation

For controllable delays and cancellations, you may need to contact airline customer service directly for compensation like hotel and meal vouchers. Travel insurance can also offer coverage for such situations.

Protecting Your Travel Plans

In winter, travel insurance becomes even more critical, offering protection against the unpredictable nature of weather-related travel disruptions.