Thousands US Flights Delayed Across Major Airports Amid Severe Storms

Severe thunderstorms and adverse weather conditions have caused significant flight delays across major U.S. airports this week, particularly in Denver and other central and southern regions. Denver International Airport (DIA) experienced over 800 flight delays and numerous cancellations on Friday amid a tornado watch and severe weather warnings, with delays averaging over an hour and a half, primarily impacting Southwest, SkyWest, and United Airlines. Additionally, multiple airports including Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago O’Hare, and Boston are facing delays due to thunderstorms, low cloud ceilings, and other weather disruptions, with summer months historically seeing the highest rates of weather-related flight delays. Meanwhile, Newark Liberty International Airport experienced a severe operational shutdown of departures due to critical staffing shortages and air traffic control outages, leading to a temporary ground stop affecting over 100 flights, though normal operations have since resumed. The FAA and relevant authorities continue to monitor and manage these disruptions, emphasizing safety and advising travelers to check flight statuses. These ongoing challenges highlight the vulnerability of the air travel system to both weather and staffing issues during peak travel periods.