Hurricane Helene is currently causing disruptions in flight operations at major airports in the southeast, with Tampa International Airport being notably affected. As of 11 a.m. ET on Thursday, there have been approximately 1,020 flight cancellations across the United States. This number is more than triple the daily average for the year 2023 and significantly higher than the 30-day high, according to FlightAware.
In addition to Tampa International Airport, other airports such as Sarasota-Bradenton International and Southwest Florida International are also experiencing a significant number of flight cancellations. Airlines are proactively canceling flights in anticipation of the storm to avoid leaving passengers stranded at airports and to expedite the recovery of their schedules.
Among the major airlines, Southwest Airlines seems to be facing the most significant impact from Hurricane Helene so far. The airline industry is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members.
Passengers are advised to stay updated on the latest flight information and to contact their respective airlines for any changes or updates to their travel plans. As Hurricane Helene continues to progress, further disruptions to flight operations may occur, and travelers are encouraged to exercise caution and flexibility when making travel arrangements during this time.