- Flight Disruptions
- US winter storm triggers major flight cancellations and delays
US winter storm triggers major flight cancellations and delays
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Checked by Matteo Floris
Last updated on January 29, 2026
10,000
Affected flights
2
Affected airports
4
Affected airlines
What Happened
A widespread winter storm across the United States caused airlines to cancel more than a third of scheduled flights and disrupted operations at multiple hubs. Over 10,000 flights were canceled on Sunday, with some carriers grounding 45% or more of departures in key markets. LaGuardia saw nearly all departures canceled, while JFK, Charlotte, and Atlanta experienced extensive cancellations and delays. Airlines issued travel waivers and cut schedules, airports focused on de-icing and runway treatment, and FAA advisories cited hazardous conditions. Travelers were urged to check directly with airlines before heading to the airport.
Flight Disruption Details
A powerful winter storm moving across large parts of the United States led to widespread flight cancellations and delays. Airlines canceled more than one-third of scheduled flights as snow, sleet, and freezing rain affected airport operations from the Northeast through the South and into the Midwest.
On Sunday alone, more than 10,000 flights were canceled nationwide. Some carriers grounded 45% or more of their scheduled departures in key markets such as New York and Dallas. At New York’s LaGuardia Airport, nearly all departures were canceled for the day. John F. Kennedy International, Charlotte, and Atlanta also reported significant portions of their daily schedules canceled or delayed. The scale of cancellations was among the highest volumes in recent years outside the COVID-19 period.
Airlines responded by issuing flexible travel waivers, proactively trimming schedules, and working to keep crews and aircraft in position. Major carriers, including American, Delta, Southwest, and United, reported substantial cancellations. Regional partners and low-cost carriers also made large schedule cuts.
Airports undertook continuous de-icing and runway treatment, but heavy snowfall and ice accumulation slowed operations and limited departures. The Federal Aviation Administration issued advisories highlighting hazardous wind chills and low visibility, prompting further reductions in flight activity.
Passengers faced long waits, missed connections, and last-minute itinerary changes as rebooking demand surged and customer service channels were strained. Hotels near major hubs filled up as travelers anticipated extended stays. Airports advised passengers to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight status before traveling to the terminal.
With cold and wintry conditions persisting, continued disruption is possible as airports clear runways and airlines reposition aircraft and crews. Travelers should monitor airline notifications and be prepared for schedule changes until weather conditions improve.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour. No compensation when a disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances, as this appears to be.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Delays and Cancellations
Cause
Weather issue
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Not eligible for compensation
Flights affected
10000
Airlines affected
American, Delta, Southwest, United
Airports affected
LaGuardia Airport, John F. Kennedy International
Checked by
Matteo Floris
Date updated
January 29, 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
