Delta, Southwest, United, Spirit, JetBlue Airways and American Airlines Are Offering Travel Waivers, What You Need To Do When Your Flight Got Cancelled as Rare Winter Looms US

As a rare winter storm and blizzards disrupt travel across the U.S., major airlines like Delta, Southwest, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and American Airlines are offering travel waivers to affected passengers. These waivers allow travelers to rebook flights without incurring additional fees, providing flexibility during this chaotic weather event.

If your flight is canceled, start by checking your website or app for updates on rescheduling options. Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines are offering waivers for travel through January 22, while Spirit Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and American Airlines have similar policies.

Travelers should act quickly to secure alternative arrangements and be aware of their rights, including potential refunds. Stay informed by monitoring weather updates and flight statuses to navigate the challenges posed by this unprecedented winter storm. Safety and preparedness are key during these extreme conditions.

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A rare winter storm sweeping through the Southeast has caused massive travel disruptions, grounding thousands of flights and stranding travelers across multiple states. Airlines are struggling to manage the chaos, with flight cancellations mounting and passengers seeking answers about compensation and rebooking options.

As of noon ET on Tuesday, more than 2,000 U.S. flights had been canceled, with an additional 1,800 delayed, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware. The bulk of cancellations were preemptively announced on Monday, allowing airlines to adjust schedules ahead of the storm's impact.

The storm has hit major hubs hard, including:

Travelers are advised to check their flight status frequently and utilize travel waivers offered by airlines.

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Passengers should verify waiver details directly with their airline and act promptly to secure alternative travel plans.

If your flight is canceled, you are entitled to a full refund if you choose not to travel. Airlines may also offer accommodations such as rebooking at no additional cost.

The DOT defines controllable delays as those caused by airline-specific issues, such as:

For controllable delays, airlines typically offer:

Travelers affected by the winter storm should take the following steps:

The rare blizzard has created a ripple effect across the Southeast, with icy conditions disrupting not only flights but also road travel and daily life. Major highways, including those in Texas and Louisiana, have been affected by ice and snow, prompting officials to urge caution.

Emergency declarations in several states, including Texas and the Carolinas, underscore the severity of the storm. Public safety remains a top priority as officials work to manage the fallout.

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Despite the challenges posed by the winter storm, airlines are working to minimize disruptions by:

While these measures help, passengers should be proactive in managing their travel plans.

The rare winter storm has turned travel across the Southeast into a logistical nightmare, highlighting the importance of understanding airline compensation policies and DOT rules. As conditions gradually improve, travelers are advised to stay informed, act promptly, and prioritize safety in their plans.

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