- Flight Disruptions
- Northeast U.S. storm cancels 7,000+ flights; travel waivers in place
Northeast U.S. storm cancels 7,000+ flights; travel waivers in place
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Checked by Carmina Davis
Last updated on 25 February 2026
What Happened
A winter storm across the northeastern United States has led to extensive air travel disruption, with more than 7,000 flight cancellations since Monday. Major U.S. carriers, including American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United, issued advisories and are offering fee-free changes via travel waivers. Disruptions are expected to continue for several days. Travelers are advised to monitor airline apps for rebooking options. As the cause is weather-related, airlines generally are not responsible for costs like meals or accommodation. Rail and bus services also saw interruptions, especially around New York and Boston.
Flight Disruption Details
A strong winter storm moving through the northeastern United States has caused widespread air travel disruption. Since Monday, over 7,000 flights have been canceled, including more than 5,700 on Monday and a further 2,100 on Tuesday. Airlines indicate that delays and cancellations are likely to persist for several days as the weather system continues.
All major U.S. carriers referenced in the report—American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United—have issued travel advisories and are offering travel waivers that allow passengers to change flights without fees. Travelers are advised to check their airline’s app or website for real-time flight status, waiver eligibility, and rebooking options. For a consolidated view of flight operations across major U.S. airports, FlightAware is highlighted as a useful resource.
Because the disruption is weather-related, airlines generally are not responsible for expenses such as meals or accommodation when travelers are stranded. Passengers should review the specific terms of the airline’s waiver and use mobile notifications to stay updated on schedule changes.
The storm has also affected surface transportation. Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor experienced partial suspensions and multiple cancellations on Tuesday between Washington, D.C., and Boston, with services reported largely restored by Wednesday and operators directly notifying customers about changes. Bus services from Greyhound, FlixBus, and Megabus saw significant interruptions in New York and Boston on Tuesday, with services resuming early Wednesday. Passengers using rail or bus services are encouraged to monitor provider alerts via text or email.
With hazardous conditions ongoing, travelers should remain flexible with plans, verify their booking options under airline waivers, and monitor official communications closely for updates on further delays or cancellations.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour. No compensation when a disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances, as this appears to be.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Delays and Cancellations
Cause
Weather issue
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Not eligible for compensation
Airlines affected
American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, United
Cities affected
Washington, D.C., Boston, New York
Countries affected
United States
Checked by
Carmina Davis
Date updated
25 February 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
