Watch it – here comes wicked weather
Potentially wicked winter weather is on the way, and could affect flights at at least three major Midwest airports: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Chicago Midway (MDW), and Lambert-St. Louis International (STL).
O’Hare is major hub for United Airlines and American Airlines. Midway is a prime connecting point for discount airline Southwest, and St. Louis is a significant domestic hub for American, and a focus city for Southwest.
A check with FlightStats finds the immediate forecast for Chicago bleak, at best. Snow and blustery winds are predicted for this afternoon (Thursday, November 30). Heavy snow is forecast tonight, with accumulations of up to five inches. Tomorrow (Friday, December 1), the white stuff should fall in the morning, then taper off in the afternoon.
St. Louis’ forecast is equally bad. Early-morning thunderstorms were forecast for today (Thursday, November 30), but it’s late afternoon that has airline schedulers concerned. That’s when freezing rain is predicted to move in. That freezing precip (rain, sleet, and snow) could accumulate up to eight inches.
Carriers are preparing for the worst. American is allowing ticketed passengers in four states to alter travel plans through December 1 with no change fees. Illinois, Missouri, Texas, and Oklahoma fliers can make fee-free modifications. United (UA) is doing the same. UA says, however, that only customers with already cancelled flights are eligible for full refunds.
How will your flight be affected by on-rushing winter weather? Best bet is to go to www.flightstats.com. The process is straightforward and free. Type in the airport, and follow the simple instructions. Not only will you get a general idea as to what’s happening, but you'll also discover your specific flight status and have a shot at making alternate plans.
© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler