A major winter storm is causing significant disruptions for airlines in the United States. Over 1,800 flights have been canceled and more than 2,800 have been delayed, according to FlightAware. The Midwest is expected to experience freezing temperatures, prompting operational challenges for airlines in the region. The Federal Aviation Administration has warned that flights at certain airports may be delayed due to clouds, snow, and strong winds.
Southwest Airlines leads the list of cancellations with 386 flights canceled, followed by SkyWest Airlines with 328 and United Airlines with 275. United Airlines has also canceled some flights through Saturday as it awaits regulatory approvals to resume operating Boeing's 737 MAX 9 jets in the country. The FAA recently launched an investigation into the 737 MAX 9 planes after a cabin panel blew off an Alaska Airlines flight, forcing an emergency landing.
Winter weather alerts, including Blizzard Warnings, are in effect for the Midwest. The storm is forecasted to bring heavy snow and strong winds to cities like Chicago and Milwaukee. Travel conditions are expected to be dangerous, and significant flight delays and cancellations are anticipated at airports in the region.
Airlines such as American Airlines and Southwest Airlines have issued travel alerts, allowing affected customers to rebook without change fees. They are closely monitoring the weather conditions and adjusting their schedules accordingly. The FOX Forecast Center predicts strong winds and the possibility of blizzard conditions as the storm intensifies.
The National Weather Service has issued winter weather alerts for millions of Americans in the Plains, Midwest, and Great Lakes region. Blizzard Warnings are in effect across seven states, with Iowa experiencing life-threatening conditions including high wind gusts and low visibility. Cities like Chicago and Des Moines are expected to receive several inches of snow, while cities in Wisconsin could see up to 18 inches of snowfall. Additionally, frigid air from Canada will cause temperatures to plummet in some areas.
Overall, the winter storm is causing significant disruptions for airlines and creating dangerous travel conditions in the Midwest. Passengers are advised to check their flight status and stay updated on the latest information provided by airlines.