Thousands of Travelers Stranded in U.S. as American, Southwest, Delta, Spirit and Other Airlines Face 151 Cancellations and 3,657 Delays in Atlanta, Chicago, Miami, New York, San Diego, Seattle and More

Published on December 22, 2025

Thousands of travelers are stranded across the United States as American Airlines, Southwest, Delta, Spirit, and other major airlines face 151 cancellations and 3,657 delays. The disruption is particularly affecting airports in cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Miami, New York, San Diego, and Seattle. Passengers are facing long waits, frustration, and uncertainty due to widespread operational issues. American, Southwest, Delta, and Spirit are all dealing with significant delays, making it difficult for travelers to reach their destinations on time. In cities like Atlanta, Chicago, and Miami, flight schedules have been severely impacted, adding to the already chaotic travel environment. As travelers continue to wait for rescheduled flights, airlines are urging passengers to stay updated and be patient.

At JFK, a ground delay advisory was issued due to wind, causing an average delay of 99 minutes. Similarly, SFO faced significant disruptions, with average delays of 108 minutes also caused by wind. ASE experienced delays with an average of 95 minutes due to high airport volume. Airports in Atlanta, Chicago, Miami, and Seattle have become hubs of frustration as passengers deal with the fallout from these ongoing delays.

Total Disruptions across US

According to the latest data, there have been a total of 3,657 delays and 151 cancellations within, into, or out of the United States. These disruptions are impacting major airports and airlines across the country, leaving passengers stranded and scrambling for alternate travel options.

Airports Affected by Delays and Cancellations

Hartsfield-Jackson Intl (ATL): With 27 cancellations and 284 delays, Atlanta’s airport, one of the busiest in the world, has seen widespread disruption. Dallas-Fort Worth Intl (DFW): Another major hub, DFW has reported 13 cancellations and 280 delays. Los Angeles Intl (LAX): LAX, a crucial gateway to the Pacific, saw 7 cancellations and 213 delays today. Chicago O’Hare Intl (ORD): Known for its massive traffic, O’Hare had 6 cancellations and 253 delays, further adding to the stress of travelers. Other airports like Miami Intl (MIA), Seattle-Tacoma Intl (SEA), and Boston Logan Intl (BOS) have also been affected, creating a ripple effect across many domestic and international flights.

Airlines Affected by Delays and Cancellations

The impact of these disruptions is not just limited to airports. Major airlines have reported significant cancellations and delays across their networks:

American Airlines: Leading the charge with 9 cancellations and a staggering 548 delays, American Airlines has faced the brunt of the chaos, leaving many passengers stuck at airports. Southwest Airlines: Known for its extensive domestic network, Southwest has reported 5 cancellations and 402 delays today, further straining the airline’s services. Delta Air Lines: With 44 cancellations and 345 delays, Delta is another major carrier affected by the travel disruptions. Spirit Airlines: Spirit, with 42 cancellations and 118 delays, has left many passengers frustrated, especially those heading to popular vacation destinations.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

Passengers affected by delays or cancellations are advised to take immediate action:

• Stay Informed: Keep a close eye on your flight status through your airline’s website or app. Airlines are offering real-time updates on cancellations and delays.
• Contact Airlines: Reach out to the airline’s customer service or visit their counter at the airport. Airlines like American Airlines, Southwest, and Delta are offering rescheduled flights or compensation for affected passengers.
• Consider Alternatives: If your flight is significantly delayed or canceled, consider booking an alternative route. Many airlines are providing free rebooking options, but availability may be limited.
• Be Prepared for Longer Waits: Given the number of disruptions today, it’s important to prepare for long waiting times at the airport. Bring snacks, entertainment, and any necessary travel documents to make your wait more comfortable.

Conclusion

Today’s travel disruptions in the United States have left thousands of passengers grappling with delays and cancellations. With more than 3,600 delays and 151 cancellations reported across major airports and airlines, passengers are experiencing a ripple effect of frustration. However, by staying informed and working with airlines, travelers can minimize the inconvenience. As the day progresses, it remains crucial for passengers to remain flexible and patient as air travel in the U.S. works through these operational challenges.

Source: FlightAware, Affected Airports, FAA