U.S. Sees Over 14,100 Flights Canceled, Reagan National Airport Grounds 99% of Flights

A significant winter storm created challenging travel conditions on Sunday, with airlines anticipating widespread flight cancellations and delays at several of the nation’s busiest airports.

The National Weather Service reported on Saturday night that extensive snow, sleet, and freezing rain were impacting nearly 180 million people, more than half of the U.S. population, along a path extending from the southern Rocky Mountains to New England. Following its passage through the South, forecasters predicted the storm would move into the Northeast, bringing an estimated 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimeters) of snow from Washington, D.C., through New York and Boston.

According to the flight-tracking website FlightAware, over 14,100 flights have been canceled across the United States since Saturday, with more than 10,000 of those scheduled for Sunday.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport issued a warning on its website regarding extensive flight cancellations. Approximately 99% of its scheduled departing flights for the day, totaling 420 flights, have been canceled.

Major airport hubs in Dallas-Fort Worth, Charlotte, Philadelphia, and Atlanta, which is home to the nation’s busiest airport, as well as New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport, have experienced considerable disruptions.

American Airlines had canceled over 1,400 flights for Sunday, representing about 45% of its scheduled flights for the day, according to FlightAware. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines each reported over 1,200 cancellations for the day, while United Airlines had more than 860. JetBlue had over 570 canceled flights, which accounted for roughly 71% of its schedule for the day.

My flight was canceled, now what?

If you are already at the airport, join the queue to speak with a customer service representative. If you are still at home or your hotel, contact your airline’s reservations staff by phone or online. In either situation, it is beneficial to research alternative flights while you wait to speak with an agent.

Most airlines will rebook you on a later flight without additional charges, contingent on the availability of open seats.

Can I get booked on another airline?

While it is possible, airlines are not obligated to rebook you on another carrier’s flight. Some airlines, including most of the major carriers, state they can place you on a partner airline, but even then, success is not guaranteed.

Am I owed a refund?

If your flight was canceled and you no longer wish to travel, or if you have found an alternative means to reach your destination, the airline is legally required to refund your money, even if you purchased a non-refundable ticket. The reason for the cancellation does not affect this entitlement.

The airline may offer you a travel credit, but you are entitled to a full refund. You are also entitled to a refund for any baggage fees, seat upgrades, or other ancillary services that you did not receive.