Published on December 10, 2025
Travel chaos has hit the US this week, with multiple airlines, including Delta, Alaska, GOL, United, and SkyWest, facing significant disruptions. The total number of cancellations and delays has reached 66 and 214, respectively, affecting major airports across the country, including Petersburg, Nome, Detroit, Chicago, Los Angeles, and others. From the East Coast to the West Coast, passengers are struggling with grounded flights and long delays, with some left stranded for hours or even days. Here’s an overview of the current situation and what travelers can expect.

Overview of Total Cancellations and Delays

With 66 cancellations and 214 delays reported, several US airports are seeing severe disruptions in flight schedules. Passengers in cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Petersburg are bearing the brunt of the delays, as major airlines such as Delta, Alaska, and SkyWest face operational challenges and weather-related setbacks.

Affected Airport Analysis: A Snapshot of Disruptions

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The most heavily impacted airports are seeing cascading effects due to the large number of delays and cancellations. Here’s a look at some of the airports where the situation has become particularly challenging:

1. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Chicago O’Hare has been one of the hardest-hit airports with a significant number of delays and cancellations affecting both domestic and international flights. Due to operational challenges and high traffic volume, travelers are facing extended delays.

• Key Affected Routes: Flights to and from New York, San Francisco, and Miami have been among the most impacted.
• Delay Times: Passengers have reported wait times exceeding 6-8 hours for rebooked flights.

2. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

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Los Angeles, a major hub for both domestic and international flights, has experienced widespread disruptions. Heavy delays, particularly on flights operated by SkyWest and United, have caused travel headaches for passengers trying to reach destinations across the US and beyond.

• Key Affected Routes: Delays on flights to New York, Chicago, and international destinations such as Tokyo and Sydney.
• Impact: Numerous passengers have been stranded, waiting for alternate flights, with little information from airline staff.

3. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)

Detroit has seen a significant number of cancellations, especially for Delta Airlines flights. As one of Delta’s primary hubs, delays have rippled through the airport, causing long lines and frustrated passengers.

• Key Affected Routes: Delta flights from Detroit to Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Boston have been most impacted by delays.

4. Petersburg and Nome Airports (Alaska)

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Alaska-based airports like Petersburg and Nome have also faced significant travel disruptions. With fewer flight options and smaller airports, passengers have found it harder to secure rebookings.

• Key Affected Routes: Flights between smaller Alaskan cities and Anchorage have been frequently delayed or cancelled.
• Impact: Limited rebooking options and a lack of nearby accommodations for stranded passengers have made this a particularly challenging situation for travelers in the region.

Causes of Cancellations and Delays

The disruptions across US airports are being caused by several factors, which have combined to create a perfect storm for air travel:

• Weather Issues: Severe weather, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast, has contributed to poor visibility, icy runways, and flight cancellations.
• Staffing Shortages: Ongoing staff shortages, especially with ground crew and flight attendants, have exacerbated the delays.
• Air Traffic Control Issues: High traffic congestion and airspace delays, particularly in major hubs like Chicago and Los Angeles, have resulted in further delays and missed connections.
• Operational Challenges: Airlines continue to struggle with managing aircraft schedules and crew availability, leading to cascading cancellations across their networks.

Impact on Travel and Passengers

The ripple effect of these delays and cancellations is being felt by passengers nationwide. Many are stranded at airports for hours, waiting for rebookings or trying to find alternative routes.

• Long Wait Times: Passengers in affected airports are facing wait times of up to 8-10 hours. Many travelers have been forced to spend long hours in terminals or sleeping on the floor while waiting for their next flight.
• Missed Connections: Due to the high number of delays, many passengers are missing connecting flights, making it even harder for them to reach their final destinations.
• Stranded Travelers: Some travelers, particularly those flying on smaller regional flights, are left with limited rebooking options, especially if they’re stuck in airports with fewer available flights.

Advice for Passengers

If you are among the many affected by these disruptions, here are some tips to navigate the chaos:

• Check Flight Status Regularly: Use airline apps or flight tracker websites to stay up-to-date on cancellations and delays.
• Stay in Contact with Airlines: Reach out to customer service or use online chat features to rebook your flight or inquire about compensation.
• Be Flexible with Your Travel Plans: If your flight is cancelled or significantly delayed, consider alternate routes, nearby airports, or even traveling on a different day.
• Prepare for Extended Wait Times: Bring snacks, entertainment, and essential items to help pass the time while you wait for your new flight.

Conclusion: A Challenging Travel Experience

The widespread flight disruptions caused by Delta, Alaska, GOL, United, SkyWest, and other airlines have created major headaches for travelers across the US. With numerous cancellations and delays, passengers are left grappling with missed connections, long wait times, and limited rebooking options. While airlines work to clear the backlog of flights, passengers are advised to stay patient, stay informed, and be prepared for further disruptions. As always, flexibility and preparedness remain key when navigating these travel disruptions.
Source: Different airports and FlightAware

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Tags: Alaska cancellations, Chicago airports, Delta delays, GOL Linhas Aéreas, Los Angeles

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Wednesday, December 10, 2025
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