Unprecedented Travel Disruptions: Over 4,284 Flights Delayed During US Thanksgiving Weekend
Thanksgiving weekend travel reached an all-time high in chaos as over 4,284 flight delays and 81 cancellations wreaked havoc on major US airports on November 24, 2025. This affected travelers across a wide range of locations including Boston, Phoenix, Miami, Honolulu, Orlando, and Texas.
Several airlines, including Frontier, American, JetBlue, Hawaiian, United, and Delta, faced severe operational disruptions. These disruptions were due to a mix of adverse weather conditions, air traffic congestion, and operational challenges. Allegiant Air reported the highest delay rate with 35% of flights, while Endeavor Air experienced a significant 37% delay rate.
Despite nearly 82 million Americans expected to travel during this record-breaking Thanksgiving period, the disruptions began as a powerful storm system swept across the country. This storm brought heavy rain, flooding, snow, and icy conditions. Major carriers maintained relatively low cancellation rates, but travelers faced lengthy delays nationwide as the aviation system struggled under pressure.
Airlines have implemented comprehensive waiver policies allowing passengers to change flights without fees through November 24, 2025. Travel experts advise checking flight status frequently and preparing for extended wait times as the industry works to clear backlogs during the busiest travel period of the year.
Source: Travel and Tour World