How to Navigate US Airports and Airlines Facing Delays This Holiday Season

Published on November 26, 2025

As the holiday travel season ramps up, U.S. airports and airlines face heavy traffic and operational challenges. A recent study by InsureMyTrip analysed flight data from the Department of Transportation to pinpoint the airports and airlines most likely to experience delays during the busy months of November and December. Understanding which airports and carriers are prone to disruptions can help travellers make informed decisions to avoid long delays and ensure smoother journeys.

Top US Airports Prone to Holiday Delays

Among the busiest airports in the United States, certain locations stand out for having a higher likelihood of delays, especially during the peak travel season. Based on flight performance data, the following airports saw a significantly higher percentage of delays during the 2024 holiday period, and travellers should consider these potential disruptions when planning their trips.

1. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
As one of the busiest hubs in the country, Newark Liberty International consistently faces delays, particularly during the holiday season. Heavy air traffic combined with operational challenges makes this airport a hotspot for flight disruptions.

2. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International is another major airport known for delays, especially when the skies are packed during peak travel times. As a primary gateway to the West Coast, its popularity often leads to congestion, resulting in delays for many travellers.

3. Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
While not as busy as some major international hubs, Palm Beach International sees its fair share of delays during the holidays. Its seasonal uptick in traffic can lead to slower processing times and longer wait times for passengers.

4. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
Located in Puerto Rico, Luis Muñoz Marín International is a key airport for flights to and from the Caribbean. With its increased holiday traffic, delays are more common, making it important for travellers to prepare for potential disruptions.

5. San Diego International Airport (SAN)
San Diego’s international airport faces congestion, particularly during the holiday period. This airport’s high volume of travellers, coupled with weather-related delays, makes it one of the top locations for flight delays.

6. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)
Located in Fort Myers, Southwest Florida International experiences significant holiday traffic, leading to a higher likelihood of delays. Weather conditions and crowded terminals contribute to the challenges faced here during the peak season.

7. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
As one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, Dallas/Fort Worth International is no stranger to delays. The high volume of flights in and out of this hub during the holiday season increases the risk of disruption.

8. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
Smaller airports like Buffalo Niagara International can also experience delays during the holidays. Due to limited capacity and frequent weather disruptions, it’s essential for travellers to plan ahead when flying through BUF.

9. Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Richmond International, although smaller in size, faces frequent delays in the holiday season due to limited resources and an increase in travellers. It’s a key regional hub, so delays here can affect many connecting flights.

10. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
As another popular Florida airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood experiences considerable delays, especially as holiday traffic surges. Weather conditions in Florida can also cause disruptions, adding to the potential for delays.

Airlines with the Highest Likelihood of Delays

Airlines play a crucial role in the overall travel experience, and some carriers are more likely to experience delays than others. Based on analysis of flight performance data, the following airlines had a higher-than-average delay rate during the 2024 holiday season, which could impact 2025 travellers as well.

1. JetBlue Airways
JetBlue has frequently topped the list of airlines with the highest delay rates. Known for its affordable fares and popular routes, JetBlue faces delays particularly when air traffic is dense, making it an airline to watch during peak travel periods.

2. Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines is another low-cost carrier with a notable delay rate. While offering budget-friendly fares, the airline can sometimes struggle with flight operations during busy travel times, leading to increased delays.

3. Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air, which focuses on connecting secondary airports, sees more delays than its larger counterparts. The airline’s operational constraints, combined with high demand during the holiday season, increase the risk of disruptions.

4. American Airlines
American Airlines, a major U.S. carrier, is often affected by delays, especially during the busy holiday season. Operational bottlenecks, coupled with high traffic volume, contribute to delays across its extensive network.

5. Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines, though generally reliable, also faces delays during the holidays, particularly on its more popular routes. Weather conditions in the Pacific Northwest often contribute to delays for this carrier.

6. Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines, like many budget carriers, has a higher percentage of delays, especially during peak travel times. Passengers flying with Spirit may want to build in extra time for possible disruptions.

7. United Airlines
United Airlines is another major airline that can experience delays due to high flight volumes during the holidays. As a significant player in U.S. air travel, delays on United can affect large numbers of passengers.

8. Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is known for its free baggage policy and flexible flight options, but during the holidays, this popular carrier also faces delays. The airline’s busy routes and increased traffic during peak periods can contribute to longer wait times.

9. Delta Air Lines
Delta, which consistently ranks as one of the largest carriers in the U.S., experiences delays during the holiday season due to heavy demand. The airline’s extensive network often leads to congestion and delays, especially at major hubs.

10. Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines is more prone to delays when heavy weather affects travel to and from the islands, especially during stormy winter months. The added volume of holiday travellers increases the risk of delays for flights to and from Hawaii.

Why Travel Insurance is Crucial During the Holidays

With so many potential disruptions in the air travel system, travellers should consider securing comprehensive travel insurance. Delays, cancellations, and other unforeseen issues can lead to unexpected expenses, and travel insurance provides essential protection. Benefits such as coverage for meal, hotel, and transportation costs during delays, trip cancellation, and baggage protection can alleviate some of the financial burden of holiday travel disruptions.

Key benefits of travel insurance include:

• Travel Delay Coverage: Reimbursement for meals, hotels, and transportation during long delays.
• Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Refunds for prepaid tours, accommodations, and travel disruptions.
• Baggage Protection: Coverage for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage.
• Medical Coverage: Emergency medical and evacuation coverage during travel.
• Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR): Flexible coverage for unexpected changes in travel plans.

Plan Ahead for Smooth Holiday Travel

As holiday travel begins, US airports and airlines are gearing up for a busy season. Knowing which airports and airlines are more likely to face delays can help travellers plan ahead and avoid unnecessary stress. Additionally, securing reliable travel insurance can provide peace of mind in case disruptions occur. By staying flexible and being prepared, travellers can ensure their holiday journeys are as smooth as possible, even when unexpected delays happen.