Airlines Warn of Major Disruptions As Winter Storm Bears Down on United States

A historic storm will spread “destructive ice and heavy snow over 34 states through Monday in the South, Midwest, and Northeast, including a potential nor’easter,” according to The Weather Channel. The storm will likely result in dangerous travel for days and “catastrophic” ice accumulations in the South, which could cause widespread power outages and tree damage.

©The Weather Channel

According to Fox Business, airlines are already canceling flights and warning travelers of major disruptions in the coming days. As well, many airlines are offering customers the option to rebook without change or cancellation fees. 

Many states are bracing for impact as a powerful winter storm is developing that will impact states from New Mexico to Maine. Winter storm alerts have been issued from the southern Rockies to the East Coast, affecting dozens of major cities, including Dallas, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Boston, and more. The Weather Channel warns that this storm has the potential to be the heaviest snowstorm “since early February 1998 in Louisville, Kentucky, only the third one-foot-plus snowstorm on record in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the first one-foot-plus snowstorm in 10 years in both Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.”

©The Weather Channel

If you were planning to travel this weekend and are flexible, you might consider postponing your trip until after the winter storm, as airlines are bracing for major disruptions. However, if you cannot postpone your travel, keep an eye on your flight and be prepared for potential delays and cancellations. Airlines have stated that using mobile apps and airline websites will provide the fastest rebooking options as the storm approaches. Carriers have already said “the mix of ice, snow, and strong winds could slow airport operations, force delays and cancellations, and complicate rebookings,” according to Fox Business.

©The Weather Channel

Now, you may be wondering what will happen if your flight is canceled or delayed. Is there anything that your airline owes you? It is important to note that severe weather is considered an uncontrollable factor, which limits what an airline owes you. If your flight is canceled for any reason and you choose not to fly, Department of Transportation rules require the airline to offer you a refund. In order to get that refund, you must refuse the changed flight, not choose to rebook on a different flight, and refuse any form of other compensation. If your flight is delayed for uncontrollable reasons, your airline owes you nothing beyond eventually getting you to your destination. But during severe weather, delays could be significant and may eventually lead to cancellations.

Orlando International Airport

Currently, many airlines are offering travelers the option to rebook their upcoming travel without any change or cancellation fees. Airlines are expecting significant impacts from this storm, so be prepared for delays and cancellations or consider changing your plans to a different time if possible. Keep in mind that even if you aren’t traveling to or from an area affected by the storm, you might still be affected, as planes and crews are stranded by the weather.

Orlando International Airport

We are always keeping an eye out for news that could impact your travels, so stay tuned to DFB for more! Plus, we are in the Disney parks every single day to make sure you have the most up-to-date information for your Disney vacation. We hope everyone stays safe and warm during the incoming winter storm.

What Your Airline Does (and Does NOT) Owe You for Flight Delays and Cancellations

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