Winter Storm Chaos: Hundreds of Flights Grounded at JFK, LGA, and EWR.

A powerful winter storm brought significant aviation disruption to the New York metropolitan area on Sunday.

New York City flight cancellations and delays numbered in the hundreds across the region's three major hubs. The severe Northeast winter weather forced airlines to preemptively cancel flights. This was done to manage safety risks and operational capacity. The storm created a cascade of problems for travelers and carriers alike.

Operational Impact at NYC Area Airports Delays

The storm severely limited operations at all three major facilities. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) reported at least 124 cancellations and 193 delays on Sunday. At LaGuardia and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), disruptions were also widespread. LaGuardia (LGA) saw 112 cancellations and 131 delayed flights. Newark (EWR) recorded 251 delays, according to data from NYC Emergency Management.

Air Traffic Control Measures

Visibility and braking conditions worsened as the snow intensified. This forced officials to implement strict air traffic control measures. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued ground delays for outgoing flights. These delays sometimes stretched up to four hours during the storm's peak. Port Authority officials also halted all inbound traffic at times.

Airline operational challenges were compounded by the need for continuous de-icing procedures. Ground crews worked non-stop to keep runways clear of snow and ice. However, the high snowfall rates made this task extremely difficult. Airlines like United Airlines, which has a major hub at EWR, faced significant re-sequencing challenges.

Passenger Advisory and Outlook

Port Authority officials and the NYC Emergency Management agency issued strong warnings to the public. They advised all travelers to check flight status directly with their airline before leaving for the airport.

• Allow extra time for travel to the terminal.
• Be prepared for long waits and potential rebooking issues.
• Non-essential travel should be delayed if possible.

Freezing temperatures were expected to follow the storm. This cold air could prolong disruptions into the new week. Compacted snow and ice are harder to remove from airport surfaces. The ripple effect of displaced aircraft and crews will also continue to affect schedules. Travelers should monitor updates from the Port Authority of NY & NJ and the FAA closely.

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