By Gao Yun
A massive winter storm is expected to sweep across the United States this weekend, covering more than 2,000 miles and potentially affecting over 40 states. Multiple U.S. airlines have proactively canceled flights on a large scale and introduced waiver policies for rebooking, urging travelers to adjust plans early and prepare for delays and cancellations.
According to USA TODAY, flight-tracking website FlightAware reported that as of Friday, Jan. 23, over 560 U.S. flights had already been canceled; on Saturday, Jan. 24, nearly 2,400 flights were canceled.
Meanwhile, as of 4:40 p.m. Eastern Time on Jan. 23, more than 1,600 flights scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 25, had also been canceled. The report noted that as the weather worsens over the next few days and the storm continues moving eastward, the number of cancellations is expected to rise further.
Why are airlines canceling flights in advance?
Airlines often cancel some flights ahead of severe weather to position aircraft and crews in advance, allowing them to resume operations as quickly as possible after the storm. FlightAware noted this is a major reason why “thousands of flights are being cut” this weekend.
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Currently, several airlines have slowed operational pace, proactively canceling approximately 2,400 flights on Jan. 24 and about 1,600 flights on Jan. 25 to facilitate post-storm recovery.
Delta Air Lines Chief Operating Officer John Laughter said the focus is on clearing snow, keeping airports operational, and ensuring pilots, crew, and aircraft are in place to get passengers to their destinations as quickly as possible.
The report also cautioned that even after the weather improves, airlines may continue canceling flights for one to two days afterward, as it takes time to reposition aircraft and crews to normal operations.
Suzanne Williamson, head of American Airlines’ Integrated Operations Center, emphasized that the airline’s core priority is “quick recovery and putting passengers first,” noting that explanations two days later that delays or cancellations were due to weather are often unsatisfactory to passengers.
What should travelers do this weekend?
Travelers are advised to stay alert, monitor airline notifications, and rebook early if possible.
If travel is necessary, research rebooking options and alternative routes in advance, and use self-service tools to avoid long lines at airports or long waits on the phone.
Katy Nastro, a travel expert at travel platform Going, reminded travelers: “Speed is key.” The earlier alternative plans are made, the better, as available rebooking seats are limited. “Acting now increases the chances of getting better rebooking options.” Travelers should also prepare backup supplies in case of airport delays.
Matas Cenys, product lead at eSIM company Saily, advised bringing extra clothing, backup doses of any medications, charging cables, and other essentials.
Which airlines are offering waivers?
Several airlines began offering travel waivers earlier this week to help travelers avoid flight disruptions and have since expanded coverage to more flights.
While policies vary by airline, waivers typically allow penalty-free rebooking or flight credits for canceled trips. Travelers can check airline websites for details on affected airports and key dates.
Airlines offering waivers include: Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, and United Airlines.
Passenger protections for canceled or delayed flights
The report noted that for canceled flights, airlines generally rebook passengers automatically, usually on the same carrier, though some may use partner airlines depending on the cause of cancellation and airline policy.
If a flight is canceled due to airline-controlled reasons (e.g., staffing shortages or aircraft maintenance), passengers waiting more than three hours are typically provided meals. If stranded overnight, most airlines cover hotel and ground transportation costs—but weather is considered an uncontrollable factor.
It’s important to note that weather is classified as an uncontrollable factor.
Regardless of the reason for cancellation, if a passenger chooses not to travel, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires airlines to provide a refund, regardless of ticket type. Travelers can check airline policies via the DOT’s Airline Customer Service Dashboard.
For delayed flights, airlines are required to transport passengers to their destinations, but no extra compensation is usually required for delays caused by weather or other uncontrollable factors. For significant delays due to airline-controlled issues (typically three hours or more), airlines provide rebooking, sometimes with partner carriers, and may provide meal allowances. Overnight delays due to controllable causes often include hotel and ground transportation. While U.S. regulators do not require cash compensation for delays, customer service may provide vouchers, miles, or other assistance on a case-by-case basis.
What supplies should Americans stock up on in advance?
Ken Graham, director of the U.S. National Weather Service, said the storm is expected to last from Friday through Monday, bringing heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain, with risks of widespread power outages, hazardous travel, and long-term transportation disruptions.
Graham advised people to prepare now, taking both power outages and extreme cold into account, and to stock enough supplies for a week.
Recommended supplies include: flashlights and spare batteries, non-perishable food and drinking water (e.g., energy bars, nuts, dried fruit), battery-powered NOAA or portable radios, extra prescription medications and first-aid kits, baby supplies (diapers, formula), heating fuel, emergency heat sources (well-ventilated space heaters), fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, and extra pet food. Experts emphasized focusing on foods that do not require electricity, refrigeration, or cooking, and not forgetting bottled water. FEMA suggests one gallon (about 3.8 liters) of water per person per day.
Additional precautions include preventing frozen pipes by opening cabinets to circulate warm air, keeping faucets dripping, and reducing ice damage. Officials warned that generators must never be used indoors or in enclosed spaces, and carbon monoxide detectors must function properly; grills and camping stoves should also not be used indoors. Graham stressed that generators must be kept away from houses, as misuse can be fatal.