When an unprecedented snow and ice storm with its center in Texas caused cancellations and delays nationwide for a second day on Wednesday, Southwest and American were among the worst-hit airlines.
Flight tracking company FlightAware reports that 28% of American flights and 17% of Southwest flights were canceled today.
As of 2:50 p.m., 2,285 flights had been canceled altogether (EST).
Additionally, there were over 1,900 cancellations and over 5,000 delays in and around the United States yesterday.
Texas is currently dealing with the effects of an ice storm that caused road accidents, downed trees, and subsequent power outages for parts of the state. This is why there is currently a travel snarl.
The storm front is currently moving across the southern United States.
Dallas-Fort Worth International (DFW), Dallas Love Field (DAL), and Austin Bergstrom International airports are currently the three worst-hit airports (AUS).
Southwest and American Airlines have both granted weather waivers that should enable customers to reschedule or cancel flights at no additional expense.
Weather waivers for the winter storm that meteorologists have called Mara have also been issued by United, Frontier, and Delta.
Although it isn't nearly as catastrophic as the winter storm that caused tens of thousands of delays and cancellations over the Christmas holiday, it is still having a significant impact on a lot of travelers.
The FAA has been quite critical of airlines' failure to quickly restore schedules to normal operation after inclement weather has passed.
The federal government will most certainly keep a tight check on airline operations to see how they handle the aftermath of this weather disaster.
Whether brought on by weather conditions or other factors, our fundamental guidance for managing erratic airline operations is the same:
• If you can fly nonstop.
• Don't check bags if you can avoid them.
• Use Apple AirTags in your bags, and avoid checking valuables or prescription medications.
• Check your credit card benefits. Your credit card may cover any extra expenses (like hotels, meals, and ground transportation) you incur during long delays or cancellations.
• Install the airline's app on your phone so you may change your reservation or do other things.
• In case you can get rebooked on another airline, be aware of which other airlines fly the route you need.
Keep in mind that you are entitled to a refund if the airline cancels your trip and you opt not to go (not credit)
When there is bad weather, the airline frequently lets you postpone or cancel your flight without charging you a fee.
FACEBOOK