Severe weather conditions have wreaked travel havoc across the United States on Valentine’s Day, leading to widespread flight cancellations and delays at major airports, including Reagan National, Boston Logan, Chicago O’Hare, LaGuardia, and Portland International.
Strong winds, heavy snow, and freezing fog have forced airlines to adjust their schedules, affecting thousands of travelers and disrupting plans for what many will be a long Presidents’ Day weekend.
Among the most impacted airlines are Southwest, China Eastern, Air France, Spirit, JetBlue, and United Airlines, all of which have been forced to cancel or delay flights due to hazardous conditions. As weather-related disruptions continue to mount, passengers are urged to check their flight status and prepare for possible rebookings, with more challenges expected as a new storm approaches for the weekend.
Reagan National Airport (DCA) Faces High Winds and Flight Disruptions
Reagan National Airport is one of the hardest-hit airports, with 33 delays and 27 cancellations due to strong winds. PSA Airlines has seen the most significant impact, canceling 26 flights and delaying another 16. JetBlue, Southwest, and American Airlines have also reported multiple delays. Passengers flying from DCA should expect ongoing disruptions and check for schedule updates before heading to the airport.
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) Affected by Severe Weather
Boston Logan International has recorded 20 flight delays and eight cancellations as winter weather continues to affect operations. Airlines like Allegiant Air and Cape Air have been forced to cancel multiple flights, while JetBlue and United have reported delays. With winter storms persisting in the region—major snow is expected Saturday night—travelers should prepare for possible last-minute changes and extended wait times at the airport.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) Battles Snow and Freezing Fog
Chicago O’Hare is experiencing severe disruptions due to snow, freezing fog, and wind gusts up to 22 knots. The airport has reported 29 delays and 12 cancellations, with SkyWest and United Airlines among the most affected. Several international airlines, including Air France, Air China, and All Nippon Airways, have also been impacted. The harsh weather conditions are making travel difficult, and passengers should monitor airline notifications closely for updates on flight status.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA) Sees Minor Travel Delays Due to Wind
While not as severely impacted as other airports, LaGuardia has still recorded six delays and two cancellations due to windy conditions. Spirit Airlines and Jazz Aviation have reported cancellations, while Delta and Endeavor Air have experienced minor delays.
Portland International Airport (PDX) Disruptions Due to Snow and Mist
Portland International Airport is facing significant travel disruptions as light snow and mist lead to 18 delays and 27 cancellations. Alaska Airlines has been the most affected, canceling 15 flights and delaying another 10. Horizon, SkyWest, and Jazz Airlines have also reported multiple cancellations. British Airways and Boutique Air passengers have experienced delays, with further disruptions possible if conditions persist.
More Travel Disruptions Expected as Powerful Storm Approaches
A major storm system is set to bring snow, rain, and severe weather across the central and eastern U.S., further impacting air travel. The Southeast faces the risk of damaging winds and tornadoes (EF-2+), with cities like Memphis, Jackson, and Tuscaloosa under a Level 3 out of 5 severe storm risk.
Heavy rainfall (3-5 inches or more) threatens flash flooding across Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, and Virginia, affecting airport operations and ground travel. Flood Watches are in effect for 11 states spanning 900 miles.
Meanwhile, snow will impact at least 20 states, with over a foot expected in central New York and New England. Strong 40-65 mph wind gusts will add to travel disruptions, causing power outages and delays at airports in Chicago, Detroit, Boston, and New York City.
With worsening conditions, more flight cancellations and delays are expected. Passengers should check their flight status and prepare for disruptions through early next week. Flightaware, for one, has live airport delay updates.
Sources: Flightaware and various weather sites.
You May Also Be Interested In…
