- Flight Disruptions
- Over 15,000 U.S. flights disrupted amid widespread winter storm
Over 15,000 U.S. flights disrupted amid widespread winter storm
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By Matteo Floris
Last updated on 10 February 2026
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Affected airports
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Affected airlines
What Happened
A major winter storm has disrupted more than 15,000 U.S. flights. By early Saturday, FlightAware data indicated nearly 10,000 cancellations through Monday and about 5,000 delays. American, Southwest, Delta, and United all reported cancellations and delays. The FAA noted temporary closures affecting Harry Reid International (Las Vegas), John Wayne (Orange County), and San Diego International, while crews focused on snow removal and de-icing. The National Weather Service advised against travel as the system stretched across much of the country. Travelers should check official channels for operational updates.
Flight Disruption Details
A large winter storm has caused extensive disruption across the U.S. air network, with more than 15,000 flights impacted. As of early Saturday morning, at approximately 5:40 a.m., FlightAware reported nearly 10,000 cancellations scheduled through Monday, along with an additional 5,000 flights experiencing delays.
Several major carriers reported significant operational impacts. American Airlines recorded 822 cancellations and 30 delays on Saturday. Southwest Airlines reported 571 cancellations and 33 delays. Delta Air Lines logged 165 cancellations and 33 delays, while United Airlines reported 150 cancellations and 45 delays.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, multiple airports experienced temporary closures due to the storm. These included Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, John Wayne Airport in Orange County, and San Diego International Airport. Air traffic professionals and weather teams have been engaged in snow removal and aircraft de-icing to keep operations moving where possible. The FAA advised travelers to monitor its official channels for real-time updates on airport status.
The weather system spans roughly 2,300 miles and is affecting areas from New Mexico to Maine. With a large portion of the country under winter weather alerts, the National Weather Service has advised people to avoid travel where feasible.
Passengers booked to travel during this period should be aware of potential schedule changes, including day-of delays and cancellations. Where airports are open, knock-on effects may still lead to irregular operations as carriers and airports address weather-related constraints and recover schedules.
Key facts at a glance:
- More than 15,000 flights disrupted nationwide.
- Nearly 10,000 cancellations reported through Monday, plus around 5,000 delays.
- Noted airline impacts (Saturday): American Airlines (822 cancellations, 30 delays); Southwest Airlines (571 cancellations, 33 delays); Delta Air Lines (165 cancellations, 33 delays); United Airlines (150 cancellations, 45 delays).
- FAA-reported temporary closures at Harry Reid International (Las Vegas), John Wayne (Orange County), and San Diego International.
Operational conditions and totals may continue to change as the storm progresses and recovery efforts continue.
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, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines
Airports affected
Harry Reid International Airport, John Wayne Airport, San Diego International Airport
Checked by
Matteo Floris
Date updated
10 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:
Collect proof that your flight was canceled, e.g. boarding pass, vouchers and any other travel documents.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the cancellation and reasons behind it.
Request an alternate flight to your destination - or a refund.
Make a note of the arrival time at your destination.
Ask the airline to pay for your meals and refreshments.
Don't sign anything or accept any offers that may waive your rights.
Get the airline to provide you with a hotel room, if needed.
Keep your receipts if your canceled flight ends up costing you extra money.
