ATLANTA, Ga. — Airlines are experiencing significant delays and cancellations following a major winter storm that swept across the country this weekend, impacting operations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world.
Airport officials report that although efforts are being made to treat the runways, travel disruptions continue to mount. Most of metro Atlanta is currently under an ice storm warning, with heavy snowfall and ice affecting air traffic and preventing incoming flights from various regions.
On Saturday alone, nearly 250 flights departing from or arriving at Hartsfield-Jackson were canceled, a number that escalated to 616 on Sunday. The overall impact for the weekend resulted in over a thousand flight cancellations and delays in Atlanta, although these figures have since started to decline as the work week begins.
As of early Monday morning, the status for flights was as follows: 175 flights at ATL were canceled and 41 were delayed. Nationwide, approximately 3,910 flights were canceled, with 4,954 experiencing delays.
In response to the adverse weather conditions, Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines is allowing customers to change their travel plans without incurring additional fees until January 28.
The ongoing ice storm not only affects air travel but has also caused thousands of power outages across north Georgia, prompting school districts to close for safety. With hazardous conditions expected to persist into Monday morning, many are advised to remain cautious.
While the situation remains challenging for travelers, airlines and officials are actively working to address the disruptions, aiming to facilitate a smoother travel experience as conditions improve.