Winter Storm Grounds All Saturday Flights at Clinton National and Northwest Arkansas Airports

A major winter storm forced widespread Saturday flight disruptions across Arkansas. Airlines canceled all scheduled departures from Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT). This action was due to severe sleet and snow conditions. The airport, however, remained open and operational.

At Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) in Bentonville, the impact was slightly less severe. The airport website showed five cancellations late Saturday morning. Two departing flights were listed as on time or having already taken off. Two arrivals were still scheduled for Saturday evening.

Operational Response to Winter Weather

Airport maintenance staff worked overnight at LIT. They cleared sleet and snow from aircraft movement areas. They also cleared passenger parking and sidewalks.

An XNA spokesperson, Olivia Tyler, confirmed the runway was cleared. Crews worked around the clock for additional snow later that day. Tyler noted that airline operational challenges would determine further delays.

This regional disruption is part of a larger US winter storm event. The storm impacted over 40 states and 240 million people. Around 12,000 flights across the country were canceled over the weekend. Southern airports often lack extensive de-icing equipment. This makes them especially vulnerable to ice accumulation.

Passenger Advisory and Airline Measures

Clinton National Airport advised all travelers to check flight status directly with their airline. This applies to flights scheduled for Sunday or early next week. Road conditions were hazardous, so extreme caution was necessary for driving to the airport.

Major carriers, including Delta Air Lines, issued travel waiver programs for the region. These waivers allow passengers to change travel dates without fees. This helps mitigate the impact of the storm. The storm is forecast to bring catastrophic ice and freezing temperatures extend into the following week.

Further cancellations are expected as the severe weather continues. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees safe air traffic operations during these events. Local public transit services were also suspended. Rock Region Metro halted all bus and streetcar services for Saturday.

Stakeholders must monitor the situation closely. The Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) remains a key hub for regional travel. Continued vigilance is necessary for all aviation entities.

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