Flight Delays and Cancellations Down This Summer

As summer travel reaches its peak and crowded airports coincide with unsettled weather, many travelers feel like the aviation system is constantly breaking down. However, despite the hot weather, airlines are actually performing pretty well this summer.

According to FlightAware, there have been over 1. 8 million flights scheduled in the United States since May 23, with only 1. 6% of those flights being outright canceled. This means that around a quarter of the flights have been delayed, with an average delay time of 60 minutes.

While summer storms often cause travel headaches, these numbers are not unusual. Last year, 1. 9% of flights were canceled and 26% were delayed during the same time period, with an average delay time of 60 minutes. In 2023, the numbers were similar, and in 2022, they were slightly higher as the aviation industry was still recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For those unlucky few whose flights are canceled or delayed, it’s important to know your rights. If your flight is canceled for any reason, including weather, you are entitled to a full refund, even if you purchased a nonrefundable ticket. However, if the airline offers an alternative itinerary, you may choose to travel on that instead.

In the case of a delayed flight, the regulations are a bit more complicated as the cause of the delay plays a big role in determining what you are entitled to. Generally, if the delay is out of the airline’s control, such as weather or air traffic control issues, they do not have to compensate you. However, if the delay is caused by mechanical, staffing, or other issues within the airline’s control, they may be required to provide further compensation. The Department of Transportation has a dashboard outlining its regulations and each airline’s policies.

In conclusion, flight delays and cancellations have been down this summer compared to previous years. While summer storms can still cause travel disruptions, it’s important for travelers to understand their rights and the airline’s policies in the event of a delay or cancellation.