Chicago O'Hare and Delta Airlines lead Sunday flight disruptions amid severe winter storm: What new updates you need to know?

On Sunday, January 5, 2025, a major winter storm caused widespread travel disruptions across the U.S., hitting Chicago O'Hare and Delta Airlines the hardest.

The severe weather conditions led to widespread flight delays and cancellations, affecting both domestic and international travel.

Extent of Disruptions

According to FlightAware, a leading flight tracking platform, over 5,000 flights were canceled, and more than 8,200 flights experienced delays by late Sunday evening.

Airports in the Midwest and Northeast were among the hardest hit, with hubs like Chicago O'Hare International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport experiencing substantial operational challenges.

Airline Responses

Major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, proactively issued travel waivers, allowing passengers to rebook flights without incurring additional fees.

This measure aimed to alleviate congestion and provide flexibility for travelers affected by the storm. Despite these efforts, many passengers encountered extended wait times and limited availability for alternative flights.

Passenger Experiences

Travelers reported long lines at check-in counters and customer service desks, with some facing overnight stays in airport terminals due to the scarcity of hotel accommodations.

Airline representatives worked diligently to assist passengers, but the sheer volume of disruptions posed significant challenges.

Safety Advisories

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued multiple advisories throughout the day, warning of hazardous travel conditions due to heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and reduced visibility.

Authorities urged individuals to avoid non-essential travel and to monitor local weather updates closely.

Recommendations for Affected Travelers

For those impacted by the flight disruptions, the following steps are advised:

Check Flight Status: Before heading to the airport, verify the status of your flight through the airline's official website or trusted flight tracking platforms like FlightAware.

Utilize Travel Waivers: If your flight has been canceled or significantly delayed, contact the airline to explore rebooking options. Many carriers are offering fee waivers for changes due to the weather-related disruptions.

Stay Informed: Keep abreast of weather forecasts and heed advisories from local authorities and the NWS to ensure personal safety.

Prepare for Delays: If travel is unavoidable, pack essentials such as snacks, medications, and entertainment to manage potential extended wait times at the airport.

Looking Ahead

As the storm system moves eastward, further disruptions are anticipated in the coming days.

Airlines and airport authorities are coordinating efforts to resume normal operations as swiftly as possible, but recovery may be gradual due to the storm's extensive impact.

Travelers are encouraged to maintain flexibility in their plans and to remain patient as the aviation industry works to navigate the challenges posed by the severe winter weather.

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