UPDATE: Major U.S. airlines are urgently issuing travel waivers as Winter Storm Fern is set to hit the country, threatening to disrupt travel for an estimated 230 million people. The storm is expected to bring heavy snow, ice, and frigid temperatures across the South, Midwest, and Northeast starting Friday, January 23, with severe travel impacts anticipated throughout the weekend.
With the weather forecast predicting widespread flight cancellations and delays, airlines are proactively alerting customers to make necessary changes to their travel plans without incurring penalties. Travelers are already taking precautions; Hopper Technology Solutions (HTS) reports a 17% increase in the purchase of its “Disruption Assistance” policy among travelers this weekend.
Here’s how major airlines are responding to the incoming storm:
American Airlines has issued alerts for travelers affected by Winter Storm Fern. Passengers flying to, through, or from 34 U.S. airports can change their flights at no cost if their tickets were purchased before January 19 and are booked between January 23 and January 25. Changes must be made by January 25, and while origin or destination cannot change, travel must be completed within one year of the original booking.
Delta Air Lines is also encouraging flexibility among its customers. The airline advises travelers with plans to fly across Texas, the Southeast, and the Northeast from Friday through Sunday to rebook their flights for departures on or before January 28 free of charge. Delta will inform affected customers via text or email, ensuring they receive timely updates.
Frontier Airlines is waiving change and cancellation fees for flights affected by the storm, as long as customers do not alter their departure or arrival cities. However, passengers will need to cover any fare differences.
JetBlue is allowing customers to rebook or cancel flights to or from a dozen cities without penalties, provided that original travel plans were made before January 22.
Spirit Airlines has also joined the ranks of airlines offering waivers, allowing customers to rebook weekend flights for travel through January 28 without incurring fare differences.
Southwest Airlines is warning customers that flights scheduled from January 23 to January 26 may face delays, diversions, or cancellations. Travelers with reservations during this timeframe can rebook without paying additional fees.
Lastly, United Airlines has announced that customers who purchased tickets before January 20 for travel between January 24 and January 26 can reschedule their trips and waive change fees along with fare differences. New flights must depart between January 21 and January 28 and maintain the same cities.
As Winter Storm Fern approaches, travelers are urged to stay updated and monitor their flight statuses closely. Authorities recommend checking with airlines for the latest information and taking advantage of the flexible policies being offered during this significant weather event.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
