Photo: Delta Air Lines This weekend is expected to bring stormy weather to large parts of the United States, with expected disruptions to flights and airport operations. Winter storm Fern is expected to hit large areas across the country, and airlines have already announced flexibility for passengers, including the possibility of ticket changes and transfers to alternative airports without change fees.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that weather and air traffic control teams are closely monitoring the storm, and recommended that passengers check flight status with the airline before leaving for the airport.
JetBlue has announced that it will waive change and cancellation fees for passengers flying between January 24 and 26 to many airports in the Northeast, including New York (JFK, LGA, EWR) , Boston, Philadelphia, Providence and Pittsburgh. Passengers will be able to reschedule their flights until the end of January or opt for a refund in the event of a cancellation.
Delta Air Lines is also reporting flight cancellations that have already begun to affect airports in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee, and is urging passengers to follow updates via the company's app or website. The company has also announced enhanced flexibility for flight changes with no extra fees, while emphasizing that the safety of passengers and crew is its top priority and that it is continuously monitoring developments to make necessary adjustments to the flight schedule.
American Airlines has also issued a broad travel advisory, covering dozens of airports in the Northeast and Great Lakes region. The company is allowing passengers scheduled flights between January 24 and 27 to change their flight dates without a change fee, subject to conditions.
Airports are also preparing: Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) said field crews are making advance preparations for winter conditions and recommends that passengers arrive prepared and check real-time information.
The list of areas where weather is expected to affect aviation includes Texas, in the southeast, including Delta's operations center in Atlanta, as well as areas in the northeast of the country.
According to forecasts, the weather is expected to include heavy rain, snow and ice, which could cause disruptions to flight schedules.
According to the weather forecast, snow is expected in New York, with accumulations of several centimeters. In addition to aviation activity, the snow is also expected to affect public transportation over the weekend, until Monday.
Emergency officials have issued recommendations for residents to prepare in advance, including stocking up on essential supplies at home. They also recommended checking on the condition of the elderly and anyone who needs assistance in the cold weather and snow.