More Than 4,721 Delays and 169 Flight Cancellations Hit US as Hawaiian, SkyWest, United, Delta, American, and Others Face Severe Travel Chaos, Leaving Thousands of Passengers Stranded Across Denver, Billings, San Diego, Seattle, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Beyond

Published on December 18, 2025

More than 4,721 delays and 169 cancellations hit the U.S., as Hawaiian, SkyWest, United, Delta, American, and others faced severe travel chaos. Weather, staffing shortages, and operational issues left thousands stranded across major airports in cities like Denver, Billings, San Diego, Seattle, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and beyond. These disruptions have created widespread frustration as airlines struggle to manage their schedules amidst a surge in travel demand. The combined challenges of unpredictable weather patterns, limited workforce availability, and logistical hurdles have resulted in massive delays, with many passengers unable to reach their destinations on time. As a result, travelers are left facing long waits, uncertainty, and significant inconvenience.

Flight Cancellations and Delays by U.S. Airlines

The data reveals varying levels of flight cancellations and delays across major U.S. airlines. SkyWest experienced the highest number of cancellations (28), but its cancellation rate was low at just 1%. In contrast, Hawaiian Airlines had a significant 49% delay rate, with 112 flights delayed. Southwest had the most delayed flights overall (728), but its cancellation rate remained low at 0%. Airlines like United and American Airlines also saw notable delays, with cancellation rates generally staying under 5%. The varying performance highlights the challenges airlines face in maintaining timely operations.

Flight Cancellations and Delays by U.S. Airports

The data showcases flight cancellations and delays at several major U.S. airports. Billings Logan International (BIL) had the highest cancellation rate at 16%, with 12 flights canceled. Denver International (DEN) saw a significant 27% delay rate, with 254 flights delayed. Airports like Salt Lake City International (SLC) and San Diego International (SAN) also reported notable delays, with 12% and 30%, respectively. Most airports maintained relatively low cancellation rates, generally under 5%, though Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) had a 2% cancellation rate. These numbers reflect the varying operational challenges faced by U.S. airports.

Flight Cancellations and Delays by U.S. Airports (Updated Data)

The latest data highlights the ongoing challenges faced by airports in managing flight cancellations and delays. Billings Logan International (BIL) had the highest cancellation rate at 12%, while Denver International (DEN) recorded 220 delayed flights, with a 23% delay rate. San Diego International (SAN) saw a significant 22% delay rate, with 74 delayed flights. Smaller airports like Sidney-Richland Regional (SDY) experienced a remarkable 40% cancellation rate, though it had no delays. Many major airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson International (ATL) and Los Angeles International (LAX), saw lower cancellation rates but notable delays.

More than 4,721 delays and 169 cancellations hit the U.S., as Hawaiian, SkyWest, United, Delta, American, and others faced severe travel chaos. Weather, staffing shortages, and operational issues left thousands stranded.

Conclusion

More than 4,721 delays and 169 flight cancellations hit the U.S., as Hawaiian, SkyWest, United, Delta, American, and others struggled to maintain operations amid severe travel chaos. The ongoing issues, stemming from a combination of weather disruptions, staffing shortages, and operational challenges, left thousands of passengers stranded across airports in Denver, Billings, San Diego, Seattle, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and beyond. As airlines work to recover, passengers remain impacted by the ripple effects of these disruptions, highlighting the urgent need for improved efficiency and preparedness in the face of future challenges.