Canada’s Air Travel Chaos: Over 550 Flights Cancelled Due to Severe Weather
Canada’s air travel system faced significant disruptions over the weekend as severe weather conditions led to the cancellation of more than 550 flights across major airports, including Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Halifax. Heavy rain, gusty winds, and poor visibility created hazardous conditions, leaving thousands of travelers stranded and airlines scrambling to adjust schedules.
Which Airports Were Most Affected?
The worst-hit airports included:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): Over 200 cancellations and widespread delays.
- Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL): Nearly 150 flights grounded.
- Vancouver International Airport (YVR): Significant delays due to heavy rainfall.
- Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ): Multiple cancellations as storms swept through the region.
What Caused the Disruptions?
The extreme weather was driven by a powerful low-pressure system moving across eastern and central Canada. Key factors included:
- Heavy Rainfall: Flooded runways and reduced visibility.
- Strong Winds: Gusts exceeding 80 km/h made landings unsafe.
- Thunderstorms: Lightning strikes further delayed ground operations.
What Should Travelers Do Next?
If your flight was affected, here’s what you can do:
- Check Flight Status: Use airline apps or websites for real-time updates.
- Contact Your Airline: Many carriers are offering rebooking options or refunds.
- Consider Travel Insurance: If you have coverage, check if weather-related cancellations are included.
When Will Operations Normalize?
Airlines expect schedules to stabilize within the next 48 hours, but travelers should remain flexible. Passengers are advised to arrive early and monitor weather forecasts before heading to the airport.
Stay updated: Follow official airport and airline social media channels for the latest announcements.
