Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines have cancelled multiple flights to and from the US due to an incoming winter storm, affecting thousands of passengers. The disruptions come as severe weather grounds flights across major US hubs.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Cathay Pacific has cancelled at least four flights from Hong Kong to the US on Sunday, with additional cancellations expected on Monday. The affected routes include New York, Boston, and Dallas, with all three direct flights to New York (CX 844, CX 830, and CX 840) grounded. A flight to Boston (CX 812) was also cancelled.
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has cancelled 10 flights to and from New York and Newark, including routes to Singapore and Frankfurt. The cancellations span January 25 and 26, with affected flights listed in the airline’s advisory.
Both airlines have offered rebooking flexibility and refunds to passengers, citing the storm’s impact on travel safety.
Deeper Dive & Context
Airlines Respond to Winter Storm Fern
The cancellations are part of a broader disruption caused by Winter Storm Fern, which has led to over 3,200 flight cancellations across the US as of Saturday evening, according to FlightAware. The storm has brought heavy snow, ice, and strong winds to major airports, including New York’s JFK and Newark.
Air India has also cancelled all flights to and from New York and Newark for Sunday and Monday, further highlighting the storm’s widespread impact.
Passenger Assistance and Rebooking Options
Cathay Pacific has waived re-routing charges and allowed passengers to adjust travel plans without penalties. SIA is offering reaccommodation on alternative flights or full refunds for affected passengers. Both airlines have advised customers to check their websites for updates as the situation evolves.
Long-Term Implications
The cancellations underscore the vulnerability of air travel to extreme weather events, particularly in winter. Airlines are likely to continue monitoring forecasts and adjusting schedules to ensure safety, potentially leading to further disruptions in the coming days.