**Over 2,500 Flights Canceled as Holiday Storm Disrupts Thanksgiving Travel**
Airlines canceled more than 2,500 flights across the United States over the weekend due to a powerful storm system that hit key travel regions during the Thanksgiving holiday return rush. The disruption began on Saturday, November 29, and continued into Sunday, November 30, affecting travelers trying to return home after the holiday.
According to data from flight-tracking website FlightAware, close to 2,000 flights were canceled on Saturday, with an additional 490 flights grounded on Sunday morning — and more expected as the storm moved eastward. The weather system brought heavy snow, rain, and strong winds to the upper Midwest and Great Lakes regions, including Illinois, Michigan, and parts of the Northeast.
Major airports such as Chicago O’Hare International, Minneapolis–Saint Paul International, and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County experienced widespread delays and cancellations. Travelers faced long lines, rebooking challenges, and some were stranded overnight in terminals. Airlines, including Delta, United, and American, issued weather waivers to allow passengers to reschedule flights without extra fees.
Transportation officials advised passengers to check with airlines before heading to the airport and to plan for additional time due to possible delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also issued warnings for potential air traffic disruptions in some major east coast corridors as the storm advanced.
The storm’s timing created complications as millions of Americans headed back home at the end of the long Thanksgiving weekend, typically one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings and hazardous travel advisories for affected areas through Sunday night, urging caution on the roads and in the air.
As of Sunday, conditions in some regions improved slightly, allowing airports to resume limited operations. Airlines are working to rebook affected passengers and minimize further disruptions, but officials caution that it may take a day or two for schedules to return to normal. Travelers are encouraged to stay updated through official airline channels and weather alerts as cleanup from the storm continues.
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