Winter Travel Update – More Cancellations And Delays

Author: Randy

Once again, thousands of flights are being cancelled at more than a dozen airports along the east coast as a severe winter storm bears down on the region. Hopefully you’ve planned for a problem like this, but even if you have, what do you need to know?

Airlines began issuing winter waivers on Wednesday in anticipation of this storm. The following policies are in effect for Southwest, United, US Airways, American, Delta/Northwest, Continental, JetBlue, AirTran, Spirit, Virgin America, Frontier/Midwest and Alaska Airlines. Most travel waivers cover flights scheduled between February 4-7, 2010 to/from airports stretching from New York to the Carolinas. If you haven’t already re-scheduled your flight, do so immediately by contacting your airline.

Amtrak has also cancelled most passenger service in the region beginning this afternoon, so make reservations now on the few trains that are operating on Saturday. Limited trains are still available, but don’t expect them to be running on time.

On the cruise scene, Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas is scheduled to sail from Cape Liberty today at 4PM. No delays have been reported and hopefully everyone will make the ship. Unfortunately, Carnival’s Pride is scheduled to sail from Baltimore on Sunday, February 7, 2010. With up to two feet of snow expected through Saturday, there are likely to be delays at the port. If you had planned on parking at the port, you may want to make alternate plans or be prepared to arrive after the arriving passengers have had a chance to dig out. We’ll tweet any delays as they’re posted.

Here are some basic tips on getting around this storm if you absolutely need to get in or out of the area:

Try to rebook on an earlier flight on any airline
Check flights into alternate airports that are farther north, then rent a car or take the train or bus to your destination
Check for airports in all directions that have flights departing to your destination or to an airport near your destination
Drive to your destination

If you choose to drive, do so only after roads are clear and treated. If you’re traveling with young kids, don’t go to the airport unless you’re fairly certain your flight will depart. Check other departures for your airline and check the inbound aircraft that will serve your flight to determine if your flight is likely to depart on-time. Don’t rely on the FAA’s website as it is rarely updated correctly. Instead, go directly to the airport’s website for more accurate and up-to-date information.

The major airports impacted by this storm are Regan National/Dulles International Airports, BWI Airport, Philadelphia International Airport and Richmond International Airport. If you plan on departing from any of the airports in this area, it would be advisable to utilize covered parking. Stay safe and good luck in your travels.