Travel Disruptions Soar as Winter Storm Strikes US: Over One thousand Flights Canceled This Holiday Season

Published on December 29, 2025

A powerful winter storm sweeping across the Northeast and Great Lakes regions has led to widespread flight cancellations and delays, affecting thousands of holiday travelers. With snow and ice impacting airports in key cities, including New York and New Jersey, the storm has disrupted air travel during one of the busiest times of the year. As a result, more than 1,000 flights have been either canceled or delayed, with travelers facing significant inconvenience.

As the storm intensified, both New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency in response to hazardous weather conditions, urging travelers to avoid unnecessary travel and prioritize their safety. Airport authorities, airlines, and local governments have been working to manage the situation, but with severe weather continuing to impact flight operations, many holiday plans have been altered.

Impact of the Winter Storm on Holiday Travel

The timing of the storm, coinciding with the holiday season, has made its impact particularly severe. Many travelers, including those heading home for Christmas and New Year celebrations, have faced delays and cancellations on their flights. Major airports such as John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) have been hit hard by the storm, with passengers experiencing long wait times, crowded terminals, and rescheduled flights.

In addition to airport chaos, the storm has led to dangerous road conditions throughout the affected areas, with snow accumulation and ice making travel on highways and local roads treacherous. Local authorities have advised against non-essential travel, and several regions have implemented travel bans or issued warnings about the risks of traveling in the storm.

Airlines and Airport Operations During the Storm

Airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, have been forced to cancel or delay flights due to the inclement weather. Flight tracking services reported significant disruptions, with many routes between the Northeast, Midwest, and South being impacted.

Airport operations have been hindered by the winter weather, with runways needing to be cleared of snow and ice before flights can take off or land safely. In response to the storm, many airlines have waived change fees for passengers, allowing them to reschedule their flights to later dates without penalties. However, these changes have led to fully booked flights on alternate dates, further adding to the frustration of stranded travelers.

Travelers have been advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to stay updated on weather reports. Airlines have been providing updates via their websites and social media channels, but passengers have experienced delays in receiving information due to the volume of cancellations and inquiries.

Travelers Urged to Prioritize Safety and Plan Ahead

With states of emergency declared in New York and New Jersey, local authorities have issued strong warnings about the dangers of traveling during the storm. Travelers have been urged to avoid non-essential trips and to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Snow and ice accumulation on the roads have caused accidents and delays, further complicating efforts to reach airports or continue on with travel plans.

For those already at the airport, many have been forced to find alternative accommodations as flights are rescheduled. Hotels near major airports in the affected areas have reported high demand, with many travelers needing a place to stay while they wait for available flights. For others who have already reached their holiday destinations, the storm has affected local transportation services, including train and bus routes.

Disruptions to Popular Winter Destinations

The winter storm has also impacted travel to popular winter destinations, especially those in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions. Ski resorts in the Poconos, Catskills, and the Adirondacks have experienced disruptions to local transportation, preventing some travelers from reaching their destinations. Additionally, major cities such as Boston, Chicago, and Washington D.C. have seen delays to local flights as the storm moves across the region.

Tourists heading to New York City for the holiday season have faced significant delays as well, with the storm affecting travel to iconic spots like Times Square, Central Park, and Broadway theaters. Attractions that rely on good weather, such as Central Park’s ice skating rink, have been closed for safety reasons, leaving tourists with fewer options for outdoor activities.

What Travelers Should Do

For those still planning to travel, experts recommend that tourists check their flights and travel routes in advance. Some travelers may find it beneficial to adjust their plans and stay longer in their current locations or to take alternate routes to their destinations if their flights have been canceled or delayed.

Travelers should also prepare for extended waits at airports and be ready to change their travel dates if possible. Those with flexible schedules should take advantage of airlines’ waived fees and reschedule flights to avoid traveling during peak storm hours. Additionally, it’s essential to have proper winter gear, including coats, boots, and gloves, if traveling by land, as the storm’s effects may extend into the roadways.

Conclusion

As the winter storm continues to disrupt holiday travel across the Northeast and Great Lakes, over 1,000 flights have been canceled or delayed, with travelers facing significant challenges during one of the busiest travel times of the year. The storm has affected airlines, airports, and local transportation, prompting New York and New Jersey to declare emergencies and urge travelers to prioritize safety.

For tourists planning to visit Bali, Hawaii, or other warm-weather destinations, the disruptions may extend to connecting flights. As always, staying informed and checking flight statuses are crucial steps for travelers to minimize the impact of weather disruptions.