Blog updated: January 8, 2025
Winter storm flight delays can swiftly freeze up your travel plans, causing a stressful scramble to make last-minute adjustments. We’ve been there — and have learned from those experiences. Stay calm and make the most of the situation by following our guide on what to do if your flight is canceled or delayed this winter.
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It’s always better to receive the bad news of a winter storm flight delay or cancellation in the comfort of your home or hotel room. Check before leaving — airlines are required to post travel updates 30 minutes after learning of a delay or cancellation. Sometimes updates are posted days before.
But winter storms can happen fast, and you might not have as much preparation time as you’d like. If you’re already at the airport, these immediate steps will help you out.
1. Check flight status
Double check your flight status by finding a flight information display screen. Don’t see one nearby? Use your phone to find the updated flight times on the airline’s website, or simply by searching your airline and flight number on Google.
2. Contact airline customer service
As soon as you learn about winter storm flight delays or cancellations, go to your airline’s customer service desk. Available seats are usually given out on a first-come, first-serve basis –– so time is of the essence.
The line will likely be long already, so a helpful trick is to check out the following three ways to get re-booked while you wait in line.
Airline Customer Service Number
Since winter storms affect so many people, domestic customer service lines may also have long wait times. Try calling the international customer service hotline, as these representatives can also adjust your flight. Are you part of an elite frequent-flyer program? Call that customer service number first.
Airline App
Many airlines have customer service chat tools on their apps. This can be a helpful way to contact a representative when the phone lines are busy.Airline App
Airline Social Media
When you really can’t find any assistance, direct message the airline on Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter) to tell them about your situation.
Pro Tip: During cancellations, keep an eye on how many hotel rooms are available in the area. It may be worth booking a room at this time, before all the travelers on the plane do, forcing you to spend the night at the airport.
3. Understanding Your Rights
When a winter storm messes up your travel plans, it’s important to know your rights. Your eligibility for a refund depends on whether your flight was completely canceled, significantly delayed, or just delayed.
Canceled and Significantly Delayed Flights
2024 law now requires airlines to rebook your flight or give you a full cash refund — not a voucher — for flights that were canceled or significantly delayed. This covers cases of weather events and includes non-refundable tickets.
Significantly delayed or significantly changed flights are now defined by DOT to include domestic flights that depart 3 hours early or late, international flights that depart 6 hours early or late, an increase in the number of connecting flights — for example, you booked a trip with two connecting flights, but now there are three connecting flights — and other criteria.
Delayed Flights
On the other hand, airlines are not required to refund you for a winter storm that causes a non-significant flight delay. As mentioned above, that’s less than 3-hour delays for domestic flights and less than 6-hour delays for international flights.
That’s because weather events are categorized as “acts of God” beyond an airline’s control. (We talk more about controllable versus uncontrollable flight disruptions below). In this case, you should stay at the airport and find a comfortable spot to wait out the delay.
Airport lounges offer refuge from hectic delays, even in the worst airports for winter flight delay. They often offer free food, drinks, entertainment and places to work. There are three different types of lounges: airline lounges, airport lounges and independent lounges. Haven’t been to one yet? They usually offer day passes starting at $20.
4. Managing Accommodations and Expenses
Short-term winter storm flight delays might mean you have to pay for an extra meal at the airport. But the expenses of long-term flight delays or cancellations can add up quickly. We’re talking about a hotel, rideshares to and from the airport, and eating out for several meals. Here are some tips to keep those expenses low.
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Hotel stay and meals
When it comes to winter storm flight delays, you may be on your own in terms of meals and a hotel. Airlines are not legally required to cover travel expenses beyond the actual ticket, baggage, and airplane accommodations.
That being said, airline representatives have the power to grant meal and hotel vouchers on a case-by-case basis. So it never hurts to ask kindly.
As mentioned, airlines aren’t liable for these extra travel expenses because weather is considered an "act of God” outside of the airline’s control. But many delays and cancellations are within the airline’s control: such as a crew shortage, mechanical problem or computer malfunction.
In these controllable scenarios, many airlines have committed to providing accommodations for travelers, such as cash or vouchers for meals, hotels and ground transportation. They’re even required by the DOT to follow through on these commitments.
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Travel Insurance
Given the likelihood of inclement weather in the winter, travel insurance might be a good option for you, especially if you’re traveling in a storm-prone area. Travel insurance may even reimburse your additional expenses, like meals and lodging.
Did you book your flight or hotel with a credit card? Many credit cards offer travel insurance. Double-check your benefits to see if you’re covered.
5. Monitoring Flight Status
When you’re waiting for updates about your delayed or canceled flight, be sure to sign up for text message notifications from the airline. Have the airline’s app? Make sure notifications are on. Other than that, keep an eye on weather forecasts as they can indicate when flights will be available.
Getting stuck in an airport or distant city is never ideal. Hopefully, these tips help you navigate your winter storm flight delays and cancellations. They’ve personally helped us through those trying times. Flight delays and unwelcome surprises are another reason why we like to travel light and live a One Bag life. Carry-ons like Knack’s expandable backpacks allow you to stay organized and nimble while traveling, no matter the weather. Have another helpful tip? Drop a comment to let us know.
6. Winter Storm Flight Delay FAQs
What are my rights if my flight is delayed?
You’re entitled to a new flight or full cash refund when your flight is canceled or significantly delayed (for more than 3 hours domestically, and 6 hours internationally). Refunds are required even for non-refundable tickets and weather events, such as winter storms.
What to do if a flight is canceled?
When your flight is canceled, get in contact with an airline representative as soon as possible. That way you’re more likely to get a seat on another flight. If you’re in an area with few hotels available, consider booking a hotel before they book up, too.
How long can a flight be delayed before compensation?
According to a 2024 U.S. law, you’re entitled to compensation or rebooking when your domestic flight is delayed more than 3 hours, or when your international flight is delayed more than 6 hours.
Do I get a refund if my flight is canceled due to weather?
Yes, if your flight is canceled due to weather in the U.S., you are now entitled to a full cash refund or rebooking. You don’t have to accept a voucher or less than the full amount you paid for your ticket, bags and seating.
Why do flights get canceled last minute?
Many factors can cause a flight to be canceled at the last minute, including inclement weather (thunderstorms, high winds, snow, ice, and fog), a staffing shortage, mechanical problems, or computer malfunction.
