Massive Travel Chaos in Canada as Air Canada, WestJet, Jazz, WestJet, United and More Airlines Report 105 Cancellations and 428 Delays Amid Snowstorms at Montreal, Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Halifax, St. John’s, Saskatoon and Regina

Published on February 28, 2026

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Massive travel chaos has struck Canada today as Air Canada, WestJet, Jazz, United, and several other airlines report 105 cancellations and 428 delays. The severe weather caused by snowstorms and freezing conditions is wreaking havoc on airports across the country. Montreal, Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Halifax, St. John’s, Saskatoon, and Regina have all been heavily impacted, with flights grounded or delayed for hours. Passengers at these major airports are facing long wait times and uncertainty as the storms disrupt operations. This widespread chaos highlights the challenges airlines and airports face during severe winter weather.

Travelers are advised to stay in contact with their airlines and check for updates frequently. With the snowstorms continuing to impact air travel, it is unclear when the situation will return to normal. As conditions worsen, both domestic and international travelers are feeling the full brunt of the disruptions.

Travel Disruptions Sweep Across Canada Due to Severe Weather Conditions

As Canada faces severe weather disruptions, multiple airports across the country are reporting significant flight delays and cancellations. The major weather systems sweeping through Ontario, the Atlantic provinces, and the Prairies have led to widespread travel chaos. Passengers are advised to stay informed and be prepared for continued disruptions as weather conditions worsen.

1. Active Winter Weather Warnings and Hazardous Conditions

Environment Canada has issued snowstorm, heavy snow and freezing rain warnings across multiple regions of Canada, including areas covering Atlantic Canada, Ontario and parts of the Prairies — all regions with significant airport operations. These warnings indicate conditions capable of disrupting travel, including air transport.

2. Snow Squalls, Blowing Snow and Strong Winds in Ontario

Weather updates for Northwestern Ontario describe snow squalls, blowing snow and wind gusts potentially 70–80 km/h, which sharply reduce visibility — a known cause of flight delays and runway disruptions.

3. Heavy Snow in Atlantic Provinces

Heavy snow systems are forecast or arriving in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland & Labrador. Such storms can ground flights by making runways unusable and requiring significant snow removal actions at airports like Halifax and St. John’s.

4. Ongoing Severe Winter Patterns Across Canada

February 2026 has seen a pattern of intense winter systems throughout Canada, including freezing rain, heavy snow, dense fog and wind advisories that have previously led to cancellations and hazardous travel conditions.

5. Current Observed Continental Weather

Canada’s official weather page shows ongoing light snow and below‑freezing temperatures in parts of Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic provinces this week — conditions that can affect aircraft de‑icing operations, visibility and runway surface condition.

Total Delays and Cancellations Across Canada

According to the latest data, today’s disruptions have affected several major airports. The total number of delays today is 428, with total cancellations reaching 105. Passengers flying through the affected airports should brace for extended waiting times and potential changes to their travel plans.

Airports and Cities Affected

The following airports have been heavily impacted by weather-related delays and cancellations:

• Toronto Pearson International Airport: A total of 178 delays and 22 cancellations.
• Montreal-Trudeau International Airport: 81 delays and 10 cancellations.
• Calgary International Airport: 59 delays and 28 cancellations.
• Vancouver International Airport: 80 delays and 10 cancellations.
• Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport: 31 delays and 5 cancellations.
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport: 28 delays and 4 cancellations.
• St. John’s International Airport: 9 delays and 4 cancellations.
• Saskatoon International Airport: 6 delays and 3 cancellations.
• Regina International Airport: 4 delays and 4 cancellations.

In addition to these major airports, smaller airports like Prince George, Deer Lake Regional, Grande Prairie, and Kuujjuarapik have also reported delays and cancellations, contributing to the overall chaos in the Canadian aviation sector.

Airlines Affected by Today’s Disruptions

Several major Canadian airlines have been hit by today’s disruptions, with delays and cancellations affecting both domestic and international routes.

• Air Canada: 19 cancellations and 114 delays.
• WestJet Encore: 19 cancellations and 37 delays.
• PAL Airlines: 14 cancellations and 17 delays.
• Jazz (ACA): 12 cancellations and 68 delays.
• WestJet: 10 cancellations and 50 delays.
• Air Canada Rouge: 8 cancellations and 23 delays.
• Air Inuit: 6 cancellations and 24 delays.
• Pacific Coastal Airlines: 3 cancellations and 8 delays.

The widespread nature of these delays and cancellations highlights the far-reaching impact on both large carriers and regional airlines. Notably, Air Canada and WestJet have reported the highest number of disruptions, with many of their flights grounded due to hazardous weather conditions.

What Can Affected Passengers Do Now?

Passengers who have been affected by today’s flight delays and cancellations should take the following steps:

1. Check Your Flight Status: Ensure you are up-to-date on the latest developments by regularly checking with your airline or at the airport for any schedule changes.
2. Contact Airlines for Rebooking: Airlines will likely offer rebooking options for passengers affected by cancellations. Be prepared for long wait times due to high demand.
3. Explore Compensation Options: Many airlines offer compensation for major delays or cancellations. Depending on the length of the delay, passengers may be eligible for meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, or even full refunds. Be sure to inquire with the airline’s customer service team.
4. Prepare for Long Wait Times: At heavily impacted airports, be prepared for long waiting times at check-in and security. Arrive early and ensure you have everything you need, such as snacks, entertainment, and essential items.
5. Travel Insurance: If you have travel insurance, check your policy to understand your coverage. If you haven’t purchased travel insurance yet, consider doing so for future trips to protect against unforeseen disruptions.

Conclusion: Ongoing Travel Disruptions Expected

With ongoing winter storms affecting much of Canada, passengers are urged to stay informed and be prepared for further disruptions. While the weather conditions are expected to improve over the coming days, the recovery process for affected flights and routes may take some time. For those travelling, it’s essential to stay connected with airlines and make necessary adjustments to your plans as needed.

Source: Flightaware