On Friday, a strong winter storm devastated 12 states in the US, causing 2,058 flights to be cancelled and 5,846 others to be delayed.
This setback happened because a heavy frost was expected over the weekend.
U.S. Airlines Grapple with Widespread Disruptions Amid Winter Storm
Southwest Airlines bore the brunt of the cancellations, with 401 flights grounded, closely followed by SkyWest at 358. The airline issued a travel advisory, cautioning passengers about potential impacts on flights in Chicago, Detroit, and Omaha due to adverse weather conditions in the Midwest.
Operational Challenges and Preemptive Measures
Delta Air Lines acknowledged the anticipated operational challenges, citing the adverse weather in the Midwest. The airline and others were gearing up for potential disruptions both on Friday and into the weekend. Preemptive measures were being taken to manage the fallout from the winter weather.
FAA's Weather Warning and United's Response
A weather warning was issued on Thursday by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on the likelihood of flight delays at some airports as a result of clouds, snow, and high winds. As it awaited regulatory clearance to resume operations of Boeing's 737 MAX 9 planes, United Airlines, which was already dealing with 284 canceled flights, saw extended interruptions into Saturday. The airline stressed that it was doing its best to lessen the blow by continuing some scheduled flights on other planes.
FAA Investigation Adds to Woes
Compounding the challenges for airlines, the FAA initiated a formal investigation into the Boeing 737 MAX 9 following an incident where a cabin panel detached from an Alaska Airlines flight last week, necessitating an emergency landing. The investigation further strained airline operations, heightening concerns about the airworthiness of the aircraft model.
As the winter storm continued its sweep across the region, airlines grappled with the dual challenges of weather-related disruptions and regulatory scrutiny, underscoring the complex dynamics faced by the aviation industry in adverse conditions.
