GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Flight Cancellation Threshold Snow Statistics

The flight cancellation threshold for snow statistics is measured based on the amount of snowfall that would lead to a certain percentage of flights being canceled.

Last Updated: June 17, 2024

Written & Summarized by: Jannik Lindner

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In this post, we will explore the significant impact that winter weather, particularly snowfall, has on flight cancellations and delays in the United States aviation industry. Various statistics highlight the considerable disruption caused by snowstorms, ranging from the percentage of flights affected to the financial implications for airlines and the economy. Understanding these statistics can provide insight into the challenges faced by airlines and travelers during the winter season.

Statistic 1

"Approximately 70 percent of all flight cancellations are due to weather conditions."

Statistic 2

"According to FAA, extreme weather events are responsible for nearly 69% of all air system delays."

Statistic 3

"An inch of snow can cause a 5% increase in flight cancellations."

Statistic 4

"Heavy snow, 6-10 inches can shut down major airports for hours and lead to 20-30% flight cancellations."

Statistic 5

"A major snowstorm, with snowfall over 10 inches, can disrupt flight operations for days and lead to 50-70% flight cancellations."

Statistic 6

"In US, the worst airport for winter travel is Chicago O'Hare with 40% of its winter flights experiencing delays."

Statistic 7

"In 2018, more than 50,000 flights were cancelled in the US due to winter storms."

Statistic 8

"During a snowstorm in 2019, Denver International Airport saw a 30% rate of flight cancellations."

Statistic 9

"Upon a snow forecast, large airports may proactively cancel up to 36% of their flights."

Statistic 10

"11,000 flights were cancelled in January 2014 across the US due to severe winter weather."

Statistic 11

"In February 2019, more than 1,200 flights were cancelled at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport due to snow."

Statistic 12

"Often, 20% of flights can be cancelled with a prediction of 5-6 inches of snow."

Statistic 13

"New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport cancels nearly 50% of its flights with snowfall prediction exceeding 10 inches."

Statistic 14

"During the 2015-2016 winter season, around 30,000 flights were cancelled in the US due to snow and poor weather conditions."

Statistic 15

"Each minute of a delayed airplane costs the airlines approximately $78.20."

Statistic 16

"A study stated that the overall cost of winter-related flight cancellations to the US economy is $3.8 billion annually."

Statistic 17

"A 2019 report states that flight cancellations due to winter weather led to over 20 million minutes in delays."

Statistic 18

"The winter weather, especially snowfall of 2013/2014 forced 49,300 flight cancellations and 6.05 million minutes of delays."

Statistic 19

"Severe snow forecasts can lead to flight cancellations up to two days prior to the estimated time of the snowfall."

Statistic 20

"A snow or ice storm can reduce airport capacity by 50% leading to cascading delays and cancellations throughout the system."

It is evident from the statistics provided that winter weather, particularly snowstorms, significantly impact flight operations, leading to a high percentage of cancellations and delays. Extreme weather events account for a significant portion of air system delays, with even small amounts of snow causing notable increases in cancellations. Major snowstorms can result in airport shutdowns, substantial flight cancellations, and extensive delays, ultimately costing the airlines and the US economy billions annually. Proactive measures, such as preemptive cancellations and early responses to severe snow forecasts, are employed by airports to mitigate the disruptions caused by winter weather. This data underscores the importance of planning and preparedness in managing the challenges posed by winter weather on air travel.

Jannik Lindner

Jannik is the Co-Founder of Gitnux and has been working in the digital space since 2016. He is specialized in content and tech.

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