Thanksgiving Return Travel Disrupted by Winter Storm Causing 2,500+ Flight Cancellations

A severe winter storm swept through the Midwest and Great Lakes this weekend, leaving thousands of travelers stranded as airlines were forced to cancel nearly 2,700 flights over a two-day period. The disruptions hit one of the busiest holiday travel weekends on record.

On Saturday, airlines canceled almost 2,000 flights, followed by 679 more on Sunday, as heavy snowup to a foot in some areasblanketed much of the upper Midwest. Until the storm, Thanksgiving travel had been unusually smooth, with passenger volumes reaching record levels.

Chicago and Milwaukee Airports Hardest Hit

Airports in the Chicago area experienced the most significant impact. Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport suffered the heaviest disruptions, with 60% of flights canceled on Saturday. Other major hubs affected included St. Louis Lambert International Airport and Peorias General Wayne A. Downing International Airport in Illinois.

The storm caused hazardous travel conditions across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Detroit-area airports reported over 300 delays and numerous cancellations as the system moved through Saturday night.

Airlines Offer Emergency Rebooking Options

Major carriers, including American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Sun Country, and United, quickly implemented weather waivers, allowing passengers to change flights without fees. These measures aimed to help travelers stranded or disrupted by the storm.

Gradual Recovery on Sunday

By Sunday afternoon, the storm had shifted east, improving conditions. However, lingering cancellations and delays continued, with 679 flights canceled and 8,292 delayed as of 5:15 p.m. EST, according to FlightAware. Many of these cancellations were preemptive, following disruptions from Saturday.

Record Thanksgiving Travel Increases Disruption

The timing of the storm coincided with record-breaking Thanksgiving travel. Over 31 million Americans were expected to fly during the holiday, surpassing last years totals, which magnified the storm's impact.

Recovery Likely to Take Several Days

Industry officials advised travelers to monitor flight status frequently and arrive early at airports. Although Monday showed only 16 advance cancellations, disruptions could continue for days as airlines reposition crews and aircraft to restore normal operations.

Travel Tips for Upcoming Holiday Trips

Experts recommended passengers download airline apps for live updates, consider flexible ticket options, and prepare backup travel plans in case future weather events affect schedules.

Author: Maya Henderson