Spring break offers a chance to unwind, enjoy, and escape Michigan’s chilly weather. However, reaching your destination can be a challenge. Air travel, especially during peak seasons like spring break, is unpredictable. Delays, cancellations, and disruptions can thwart your plans and dampen your spirits. To assist you in navigating potential travel hurdles, we’ve compiled a list of seven airports with a high likelihood of flight delays or cancellations during the spring break period (March and April), based on data from aGamble.com and AirHelp. Here are the airports to be cautious about:
Fort Lauderdale – Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Fort Lauderdale is a popular spring break destination, especially for Michiganders seeking warm weather and Florida beaches. However, Fort Lauderdale – Hollywood International Airport tops the list as the most delayed airport for spring break travel, with a 39.5% disruption rate in previous years. High traffic and weather-related issues contribute to delays and cancellations.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
As one of the world’s busiest airports and a major hub for American Airlines, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport experienced a 28.51% disruption rate during spring break. Weather-related challenges, including snow, ice, fog, and storms, contribute to disruptions.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
Las Vegas, a sought-after spring break destination, is served by Harry Reid International Airport, where 28.52% of flights faced disruptions. Weather-related issues, long security lines, limited seating, and poor customer service contribute to delays and cancellations.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Among the three major New York metropolitan airports, Newark Liberty International Airport is the least favorable for spring break travel, with a 37.1% disruption rate. Airspace congestion, weather issues, and long security lines are major contributors to disruptions.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
As a major hub for American Airlines and United Airlines, Chicago O’Hare International Airport faced a 27.67% disruption rate during spring break. Unpredictable and severe weather in Chicago, coupled with congestion and capacity issues, contribute to delays and cancellations.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
As the largest U.S. airport by land area, Denver International Airport experienced a 26.93% disruption rate during spring break. Extreme and variable weather, including snow, ice, hail, thunderstorms, and tornadoes, contribute to disruptions.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport, the second-busiest in California, faced a 26.85% disruption rate during spring break. Foggy, rainy, and windy weather, coupled with congestion and capacity issues, contribute to delays and cancellations.
Conclusion
Wwhile spring break is a time for enjoyment, potential travel disruptions can lead to frustration. Consider alternative routes, destinations, or transportation modes to avoid these airports. If flying through them is unavoidable, be prepared for potential disruptions. Check your flight status, pack light, arrive early, and have a backup plan. Utilize apps like Hopper or AirHelp to find the best deals and track your flight. Safe travels!