As Winter Storm Blair threatens to disrupt travel for many passengers across the U.S., airlines are offering waivers for flight changes to help travelers adjust their plans without extra fees. The storm is expected to bring heavy snow and ice to central and eastern U.S. states, affecting travel this weekend.
American Airlines announced it will allow passengers flying to or from 45 cities impacted by the storm to change their flights without paying the usual change fee. This applies to flights scheduled between January 4 and January 6, purchased before January 1. Passengers can reschedule their flights between January 2 and January 9, as long as they do not change their origin or destination city, or upgrade their cabin. If they do, passengers will be responsible for any fare differences.
Delta Air Lines issued a weather advisory for travelers in the Central U.S., offering free rebooking options for flights to, from, or through 12 airports between January 3 and January 6. Passengers are encouraged to visit Delta’s website for rebooking instructions.
Southwest Airlines also made changes to its travel policy. Passengers with flights booked through 14 U.S. airports, likely to be affected by the storm, can change their travel plans without incurring additional fees.
United Airlines is providing flexibility for travelers affected by the storm. The airline will waive most change fees for flights from nine airports in the Mid-Atlantic region, originally scheduled between January 5 and January 6. This applies to tickets purchased before January 2. Passengers can rebook flights between January 3 and January 13, as long as they remain within the same cities and cabin class originally booked. Additionally, for travelers in the Central U.S. with flights scheduled between January 4 and January 6, United is allowing rescheduling with no change fees or fare differences, as long as tickets were purchased before January 1.
With the storm causing potential disruptions, passengers are encouraged to check with their airline for specific rebooking policies and options.
