Unmatched Scale Shatters Pandemic Records (Image Credits: Unsplash)
A ferocious winter storm barreled through much of the United States on Sunday, triggering over 11,000 flight cancellations and marking the worst single-day disruption for airlines since the COVID-19 pandemic.[1][2]
Unmatched Scale Shatters Pandemic Records
Flight-tracking service FlightAware reported more than 11,000 cancellations nationwide on Sunday alone.[1] This figure doubled the number from Saturday and exceeded any daily total since early 2020.
The storm’s fury forced airports from the Southern Rockies to New England to halt operations amid heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain.[1] LaGuardia Airport in New York City closed Sunday afternoon, with over 90 percent of its flights already scrapped by then.[2] The Federal Aviation Administration noted no immediate takeoffs even after a partial reopening later that evening.
Weekend disruptions compounded quickly, with airlines canceling more than 13,000 flights over Saturday and Sunday combined.[3]
Storm’s Wide Reach Grounds Key Hubs
The National Weather Service warned of widespread hazardous conditions persisting through Monday.[1] Affected regions stretched across 34 states, including the Northeast, Midwest, South, and Plains.
Major airports bore the brunt:
- New York City’s LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark saw over 2,700 cancellations.[2]
- Chicago’s O’Hare reported 319 cancellations and hundreds delayed by evening.[4]
- Detroit Metro faced 143 incoming cancellations.[5]
- Dallas-Fort Worth and other Texas hubs canceled thousands ahead of the ice and snow.[3]
- Pittsburgh International scrapped over 100 flights.[6]
Even sunnier spots like South Florida airports dealt with ripple effects from the national chaos.
Airlines Hit Hard, Issue Waivers
American Airlines led the cancellations with over 1,600 flights grounded Sunday, representing about 52 percent of its schedule.[7] United and Delta followed closely, according to Flightradar24 data.[1]
| Airline | Sunday Cancellations | Share of Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| American | 1,600+ | 52% |
| United | Significant | N/A |
| Delta | Significant | N/A |
Major carriers responded by offering travel waivers, allowing passengers to reschedule without fees.[1] Delta cited safety measures at airports in Texas, Oklahoma, and nearby states.
Stranded Travelers Face Long Waits
Passengers endured widespread delays, diversions, and groundings, stranding thousands at terminals.[5] Public transit also faltered: NJ Transit suspended service, and NYC Ferries halted operations.[2]
Over 2,400 additional cancellations loomed for Monday as the storm lingered.[1] Travelers received advice to check airline apps and monitor road conditions before heading out.
Key Takeaways
- 11,000+ cancellations Sunday set a post-pandemic record.[1]
- Storm hit 34 states with snow, ice, and freezing rain.
- Airlines waived fees; check status before travel.
As cleanup begins and temperatures plummet further, airlines prioritize safety over schedules – a stark reminder of nature’s dominance over modern travel. What are your travel plans this week, and how has the storm affected them? Tell us in the comments.CBS News
