Published on December 20, 2025
Passengers across Europe and the United States are facing unprecedented disruptions, with 434 flight delays and 22 cancellations leaving travelers stranded at some of the busiest airports. EasyJet, Ryanair, Brussels Airlines, Pegasus, Austrian Airlines, Eurowings, and several other major carriers are grappling with operational issues that have caused major travel headaches. Airports like Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Berlin Brandenburg (BER), Copenhagen (CPH), Charlotte Douglas International (CLT), and others are feeling the strain, with thousands of passengers impacted as travel chaos sweeps across the globe.

Overview of Cancellations and Delays

The travel disruptions have led to a widespread mess at airports, and the total number of cancellations and delays continues to grow. Passengers are feeling the full force of the chaos, with many wondering how their holiday plans might be affected.

Here’s a breakdown of the total cancellations and delays at the most impacted airports:

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT):
  • Cancellations: 9
  • Delays: 57
• Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris (CDG):
  • Cancellations: 6
  • Delays: 226
• Copenhagen Airport (CPH):
  • Cancellations: 4
  • Delays: 77
• Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER):
  • Cancellations: 3
  • Delays: 74

These numbers are expected to rise as the disruptions continue, creating havoc for travelers hoping to reach their destinations.

Causes Behind the Cancellations and Delays

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Several factors have contributed to the widespread chaos, with weather-related delays and operational issues at the forefront. Here’s a closer look at the causes:

• Severe Weather:
  Inclement weather is one of the primary culprits behind these disruptions. Dense fog, snowstorms, and poor visibility have caused major delays, especially at airports like Charles de Gaulle and Copenhagen. This has led to operational slowdowns and delays in both air traffic and ground services.
• Staffing Shortages:
  Staffing shortages, a lingering issue in the airline industry, have exacerbated the situation. With fewer staff available for check-ins, baggage handling, and other essential services, EasyJet, Ryanair, and other airlines have struggled to maintain smooth operations.
• Air Traffic Control Restrictions:
  Air traffic control restrictions at busy airports such as Berlin Brandenburg and Charles de Gaulle have added to the delays. These restrictions often occur due to heavy air traffic during peak times, particularly in congested airports, as well as the technical limitations that can arise from weather conditions.
• Technical Failures:
  A number of delays have been attributed to technical issues with the aircraft themselves. For example, EasyJet and Ryanair have had to delay several flights due to unexpected maintenance and safety checks that delayed takeoff times. Such technical problems are rare but can cause significant delays in a short period.

Affected Airports and Their Impact

The following airports have been severely affected by the ongoing disruptions. Here’s how the situation is unfolding across these major hubs:

1. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

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Located in North Carolina, CLT has been heavily impacted by delays, with 57 flights delayed and 9 cancellations. The delays are primarily caused by weather conditions and operational constraints. Passengers have reported long lines and crowded terminals, with many facing limited options for rebooking flights.

2. Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris (CDG)

As one of Europe’s busiest airports, CDG has seen the most significant delays and cancellations. With 226 delays and 6 cancellations, Charles de Gaulle has become a focal point of frustration for travelers. Passengers have complained of long waiting times, limited food options, and scarce information from airlines, all contributing to an increasingly chaotic atmosphere.

3. Copenhagen Airport (CPH)

At Copenhagen Airport, 4 cancellations and 77 delays have disrupted travel plans for many passengers. Delays are primarily caused by ongoing weather-related issues, with snowstorms affecting visibility and slowing down flight operations. Passengers have also been stuck at the airport, experiencing longer-than-usual wait times for rebooked flights.

4. Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

Berlin Brandenburg, another busy European hub, is seeing its own share of disruptions with 3 cancellations and 74 delays. A combination of weather delays and technical issues with aircraft has caused a backlog of flights, leaving passengers in limbo. Travelers have been advised to check flight statuses frequently and arrive at the airport earlier than usual to avoid further frustration.

Advice for Passengers

With 434 delays and 22 cancellations disrupting travel across major airports, passengers are left wondering what steps they can take to minimize the impact on their travel plans. Here are some essential tips for handling these disruptions:

• Check Flight Status Regularly:
  Always stay up-to-date on your flight’s status by checking with the airline’s app or website. Many airlines provide real-time notifications of delays, cancellations, and gate changes, helping passengers avoid unexpected surprises at the airport.
• Register for Alerts:
  Sign up for flight alerts via the airline’s website or app to receive automatic updates on any changes to your flight. This is especially useful in cases where delays or cancellations occur unexpectedly.
• Arrive Early and Stay Prepared:
  With delays becoming common, it’s wise to arrive at the airport early and be prepared for extended wait times. Pack snacks, entertainment, and any essential items to make your time at the airport more comfortable.
• Know Your Rights:
  European regulations provide passengers with compensation if their flight is delayed by more than three hours or if it is canceled. Make sure you know your rights and inquire with the airline about compensation options.
• Look for Alternative Flights:
  In the event of a long delay or cancellation, it’s important to speak to the airline’s customer service about rebooking your flight. Many airlines are offering flexible rebooking options or refund policies, so take advantage of those if your travel plans are affected.

Conclusion: Staying Informed Amid Chaos

As 434 delays and 22 cancellations continue to wreak havoc at airports in Europe and the U.S., passengers are left scrambling for solutions. Weather disruptions, staffing shortages, and technical issues have all contributed to this travel chaos, particularly at major hubs like Charles de Gaulle, Copenhagen, and Berlin Brandenburg.
While the situation remains fluid, it’s clear that passengers need to stay vigilant and informed to manage the impact of these disruptions. Regularly checking flight statuses, registering for alerts, and knowing your rights are crucial steps in ensuring that your travel plans aren’t further delayed or disrupted.
Source: Different airports and FlightAware

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Tags: 434 delays, berlin brandenburg, Brussels Airlines, charles de gaulle, Charlotte Douglas

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