Major Travel Chaos Across Canada with Air Canada, Porter, Jazz, Endeavor and More Airlines Facing 92 Cancellations and 479 Delays Impacting Toronto, Montreal, St. John’s, and Others

A mix of wintry weather has struck Canada, prompting severe weather warnings in more than half of the provinces and two of the three territories. Air Canada, Porter, Jazz, and Endeavor Air are facing major disruptions, with 92 cancellations and 479 delays reported so far. Travelers flying through Toronto, Montreal, St. John’s, and other cities are dealing with significant delays as blizzard-like conditions, heavy snow, and bitter cold sweep across the country. On the East Coast, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island are experiencing severe weather, with up to 40 cm of snow expected in some areas. Coastal flooding, damaging winds, and blowing snow are making conditions even worse.

Further west, Alberta, British Columbia, and the Yukon are also under weather warnings for freezing rain, heavy snow, and extreme cold, with wind chills reaching as low as -50°C in some regions. As the severe winter weather continues, passengers should stay updated on flight status and prepare for ongoing disruptions.

Total Delays and Cancellations: An Overview

• Total Delays: 479
• Total Cancellations: 92

The delays and cancellations stem from a combination of factors, including inclement weather, operational challenges, and high passenger volumes. Affected airports include Toronto Pearson International, Montreal-Trudeau, and St. John’s International, where weather warnings and winter storm conditions are causing widespread disruptions.

Analysis of Affected Airports and Airlines

Toronto Pearson International Airport

At Toronto Pearson, Canada’s busiest airport, a significant number of passengers are experiencing disruptions. With 14 cancellations (4%) and 119 delays (37%), the airport is facing the largest impact. Air Canada is the most affected airline at this location, accounting for a significant portion of the delays, with 14 cancellations and 119 delays reported. Porter Airlines and Air Canada Rouge are also seeing several delayed flights, although the cancellations here remain fewer.

Montreal-Trudeau International Airport

Montreal-Trudeau has reported 4 cancellations (2%) and 19 delays (13%) for Air Canada and Porter Airlines. Although the numbers are less severe compared to Toronto, passengers flying with Endeavor Air (DAL) are experiencing the highest percentage of delays, with 35% of its flights impacted. Jazz (ACA) also reports some delays, but the total disruption here is lower in comparison.

St. John’s International Airport

St. John’s International Airport has been hit by 27 cancellations (57%) and 278 delays (28%). Air Canada remains the airline with the highest number of disruptions, making this airport one of the worst-affected. PAL Airlines is also facing a noticeable number of cancellations and delays.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

With the ongoing delays and cancellations, passengers are urged to stay informed and take action to minimize the impact on their travel plans:

• Stay Updated on Flight Status: Check the status of your flight regularly through your airline’s website or mobile app. Many airlines are offering updates on delays, cancellations, and rebooking options.
• Consider Rebooking Options: If your flight has been cancelled, explore rebooking options with your airline. Some airlines are offering free rebooking or waiving change fees for affected passengers.
• Know Your Rights: Understand your rights when it comes to compensation for delays or cancellations. In Canada, airlines are required to compensate passengers under certain circumstances, such as long delays or cancellations.
• Plan for Longer Wait Times: With heavy snow and wind conditions, be prepared for longer wait times at check-in, security, and gate areas. Allow extra time for your travel to avoid additional stress.
• Check for Alternate Routes: If your flight is cancelled, ask your airline about alternate routes, including connections through nearby airports, to avoid being stuck for long periods.

Conclusion

Travel disruptions are expected to continue throughout the day and week as winter weather warnings remain in effect across Canada. With 92 cancellations and 479 delays reported so far, it is crucial for passengers to remain proactive by monitoring their flights and adjusting their travel plans accordingly. Air Canada, Porter Airlines, Air Canada Rouge, and other affected carriers are working to address the ongoing disruptions, but passengers should be prepared for further delays and cancellations in the coming days.

Source: FlightAware and Affected Airports, CTV news