Thousands of Passengers Stranded in US as Delta, United, American, SkyWest, and Other Airlines Face 571 Cancellations and 6,898 Delays Amid Snowstorms across Chicago, Atlanta, New York City, Boston and More

Published on December 8, 2025

Thousands of Passengers Stranded in the US as severe snowstorms wreak havoc across the country, leaving Delta, United, American, SkyWest, and other airlines grappling with 571 cancellations and 6,898 delays. Major cities like Chicago, Atlanta, New York City, Boston, and several others are experiencing chaotic scenes at airports, with passengers stranded due to ongoing weather disruptions. Snowstorms have intensified over the last few days, forcing flight crews to delay or cancel flights, while airport operations struggle to cope with the increasing snow accumulation and freezing temperatures. The cancellations and delays are affecting both domestic and international travelers, leading to widespread frustration.

Passengers are urged to stay informed by regularly checking flight statuses. While some are waiting at airports for rebooking options, others are scrambling to find alternative routes as the situation continues to worsen.

Airports and Cities Affected by Severe Weather

The Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast regions are bearing the brunt of the weather-related disruptions. Key airports, including Chicago O’Hare, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, and Philadelphia International, have been particularly impacted. These airports, which serve as major hubs for both domestic and international flights, have seen a surge in cancellations and delays as the polar vortex intensifies.

• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), which handles a large number of flights daily, has recorded 266 cancellations and 1,122 delays. This is one of the busiest airports in the U.S. and a significant point of congestion for travelers.
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), another major hub, has faced 124 cancellations and 1,095 delays, causing travel disruptions across the Southeast.
• New York’s JFK and LaGuardia airports have also experienced major delays, impacting travelers trying to get in and out of the city, with cold temperatures and heavy snow contributing to runway closures and slow ground operations.

In addition to these major cities, airports in the Midwest and Northeast, such as Boston Logan International, Philadelphia International, and Detroit Metro Wayne County, are seeing record low temperatures and snowy conditions, leading to further flight cancellations and delays.

Impact on Airlines and Passengers

The airline industry is not immune to the challenges presented by this severe winter weather. Major U.S. carriers, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines, are facing disruptions. Delta, which had 125 cancellations and 1,169 delays, has been particularly affected, with regional carriers like SkyWest Airlines and Republic Airways also seeing significant delays due to the weather. American Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines have also reported delays in their operations, with SkyWest Airlines alone experiencing 89 cancellations and 491 delays.

The extended delays are primarily caused by the polar vortex, which is bringing subzero temperatures and snowfall to many areas. This has created dangerous conditions for both ground operations and air traffic, with de-icing and runway clearing adding to the operational challenges.

What Can Affected Passengers Do Now?

For travelers whose flights have been delayed or canceled, it is crucial to remain flexible and informed. Here are a few steps passengers can take:

• Stay Updated: Regularly check your airline’s website and app for updates on your flight status. Airlines will typically provide real-time information regarding cancellations or delays.
• Rebook Flights: If your flight is canceled, airlines often offer the option to rebook on the next available flight. Many airlines waive rebooking fees during severe weather events, so passengers should act quickly.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Travelers who purchased travel insurance may be able to claim compensation for additional expenses like accommodation or meals in case of long delays or cancellations.
• Prepare for Delays: If you are traveling to or from an affected airport, consider arriving early and packing snacks, extra clothes, and chargers, as the situation could change rapidly.
• Contact Airlines for Assistance: If you’re stuck at the airport due to cancellations, be sure to reach out to airline representatives for assistance with lodging or rebooking.

Looking Ahead: How Long Will the Disruptions Last?

The disruptions caused by the polar vortex are expected to continue for the coming weeks, with further cold fronts and snowstorms expected to impact the Midwest and Northeast. The second wave of cold weather will arrive the week of December 14, and it is expected to be more intense. As we move closer to Christmas, travelers in the Upper Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast should prepare for more snow and icy conditions, potentially leading to additional flight delays and cancellations.

In summary, as the U.S. faces a severe winter, passengers must stay vigilant and flexible to deal with the ongoing travel disruptions. The combination of the polar vortex, record snowfall, and freezing temperatures will continue to impact flights, especially in major airports in the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast. Passengers are advised to check for updates, stay informed, and be prepared for any potential delays or cancellations.

Source: FlightAware and Affected Airports