Thousands of Passengers Grounded as Travel Disruptions Hit US with Frontier, Delta, Alaska, United, and Other Airlines Cancel 55 Flights in US, Affecting Routes across Seattle, Newark, San Diego and More

Published on September 19, 2025

Thousands of passengers are stranded as travel disruptions continue to wreak havoc across US today, Frontier, Delta, Alaska, United, and several other airlines have been forced to cancel 55 flights within the US, causing widespread chaos at major airports. Seattle, Newark, San Diego, and many other cities are seeing severe impacts, with travelers facing long delays and cancellations on critical routes. This disruption has left many passengers scrambling to find alternative flights or make last-minute travel plans.

The cancellations are affecting both domestic and international flights, and the ripple effect is being felt at major hubs like San Diego International Airport (KSAN) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (KSEA). With the uncertainty surrounding air travel today, passengers are urged to stay updated and check with their airlines regularly for rebooking options.

Travel disruptions have significantly impacted airlines and airports around the world, with major delays and cancellations across the US and internationally. Passengers traveling with United Airlines, interCaribbean Airways, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and SkyWest are experiencing severe disruptions today. Below is a detailed breakdown of the affected airlines, the disruptions caused, and what passengers can do to manage their travel plans.

Affected Airports and Cities

US Airports Affected

Across the United States, several airports have been affected by significant delays and cancellations. San Diego International Airport (KSAN) in California, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (KSEA) in Washington, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (KPHX) in Arizona are among the most impacted. Additionally, airports in Los Angeles (KLAX), Portland (KPDX), and San Francisco (KSFO) are facing travel disruptions, particularly for passengers flying on United Airlines and Delta Air Lines.

International Airports Affected

Disruptions are not limited to the US Many international airports are also experiencing delays and cancellations. Major European airports like Malpensa International Airport (MXP) in Milan, Zurich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland, and Barcelona International Airport (BCN) in Spain are facing challenges. Similarly, airports in the Caribbean, such as Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Barbados and Providenciales International Airport (PLS) in the Turks and Caicos Islands, are also affected by these travel disruptions.

Reason of Disruptions

Even though no airline has given any specific reason for the disruptions, but according to NWS, these things are necessary to watch out for travelers across US. The heavy rain and flash flooding expected across portions of the Southwest through Friday are due to flood watches currently in effect. These conditions are being driven by a combination of moisture and unstable atmospheric conditions in the region. Additionally, strong thunderstorms in the Plains are a result of a weather system causing severe thunderstorms, which can bring damaging winds and heavy rain.

In the Caribbean, a tropical wave is contributing to heavy rainfall in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, increasing the risk of urban flooding, small stream flooding, and even landslides today. These weather patterns are creating hazardous conditions across multiple regions.

Total Delays and Cancellations

The disruptions have led to a significant number of flight cancellations and delays, affecting passengers both within the US and internationally.

United Airlines (UAL): 16 Cancellations and 208 Delays

United Airlines has faced 16 cancellations and 208 delays today, affecting several majorUS airports, including San Diego International Airport (KSAN), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (KSEA), and Portland International Airport (KPDX). Passengers flying through Los Angeles (KLAX) and Chicago O’Hare (KORD) are also experiencing significant disruptions.

interCaribbean Airways (IWY): 13 Cancellations and 22 Delays

interCaribbean Airways has had 13 cancellations and 22 delays, primarily affecting flights to and from Providenciales International Airport (PLS) in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Barbados, and Douglas Charles International Airport (DOM) in the Caribbean. Affected passengers are experiencing long delays, especially on flights to and from George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) in Saint Lucia.

Alaska Airlines (ASA): 9 Cancellations and 42 Delays

Alaska Airlines has had 9 cancellations and 42 delays, mainly affecting flights to and from San Diego International Airport (KSAN), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (KSEA), and Portland International Airport (KPDX). Delays are also affecting flights out of San Francisco International Airport (KSFO) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (KPHX).

Delta Air Lines (DAL): 5 Cancellations and 213 Delays

Delta Air Lines has reported 5 cancellations and 213 delays, affecting passengers traveling to and from major US airports like San Diego International Airport (KSAN), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (KSEA), Los Angeles International Airport (KLAX), and Orlando International Airport (KMCO). International flights through Barcelona International Airport (BCN) and Zurich Airport (ZRH) have also been impacted.

SkyWest (SKW): 4 Cancellations and 121 Delays

SkyWest has experienced 4 cancellations and 121 delays, primarily affecting flights departing from San Diego International Airport (KSAN) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (KSEA). Additionally, disruptions are affecting flights traveling through Monterey Regional Airport (KMRY) and Spokane International Airport (KGEG).

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

Contact Your Airline for Immediate Assistance

Passengers affected by delays and cancellations should reach out to their airline immediately. Many airlines offer rebooking options or accommodations for stranded passengers. If you’re already at the airport, visit the airline’s customer service desk for assistance.

Stay Informed About Flight Status

Given the scale of today’s disruptions, it’s essential to stay updated on the status of your flight. Before heading to the airport, double-check your flight’s status through the airline’s website or mobile app. Frequent updates may be available, especially during significant delays.

Know Your Rights and Compensation Options

If your flight is delayed or canceled, you may be entitled to compensation or accommodations, depending on the circumstances and your location. For example, in the European Union, passengers are protected by regulations requiring compensation for certain delays and cancellations. Check with your airline about what compensation options are available and whether you qualify.

Look for Alternative Routes

If your flight has been canceled and rebooking options are unavailable or limited, consider looking for alternative flights with other airlines or routes. Some airlines may offer to rebook you on another carrier or provide options for flights to nearby airports.

Consider Travel Insurance for Future Trips

Travel insurance can help protect you from the financial impact of unexpected travel disruptions, especially for frequent travelers. While it won’t help with today’s issues, having travel insurance in place can provide peace of mind for future trips.

Conclusion

Today’s widespread travel disruptions have caused significant delays and cancellations, with United Airlines, interCaribbean Airways, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and SkyWest facing operational challenges. With 55 canceled flights and 2,280 delays reported, travelers are urged to stay proactive and informed. Contacting your airline for rebooking, staying updated on flight statuses, and understanding your rights are essential steps for managing travel during such disruptions. While this situation is inconvenient for many, being flexible and quick to adapt can help passengers minimize the impact of these disruptions on their travel plans.

Source: FlightAware