Thousands Of US Flights Canceled Or Delayed Amid System Outages

Thousands Of US Flights Canceled Or Delayed Amid System Outages...

Major U.S. airlines canceled over 1,200 flights and delayed thousands more on Monday due to a combination of system outages and severe weather. The disruptions affected major hubs including Chicago O'Hare, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Atlanta, leaving travelers stranded nationwide.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed brief outages in its Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) system early Monday, compounding delays caused by thunderstorms across the Southeast. American Airlines, Southwest, and Delta reported the highest cancellation rates, with over 400 flights scrapped by midday.

Passengers took to social media to share frustration as airport queues stretched for hours. "I've been rebooked three times since my 7 a.m. flight was canceled," said Chicago traveler Mark Reynolds. Airlines are waiving change fees but warn of limited rebooking options through Wednesday.

The disruptions come during peak spring break travel season, when U.S. airlines typically operate at 90% capacity. Aviation analysts attribute the strain to aging infrastructure and staffing shortages that leave little margin for error during weather events.

The FAA says its systems are now fully operational, but residual delays are expected through Tuesday. Travelers are advised to check flight statuses before heading to airports and consider early morning flights, which have higher on-time performance rates.