Chicago O’Hare Leads in Flight Disruptions with 320 Cancellations

On March 14, 2024, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) experienced significant operational disruptions, topping the list of U.S. airports with a staggering total of 943 flights either canceled or delayed. This accounted for approximately 74% of its planned daily operations, with 320 cancellations and 623 delays. The situation was exacerbated by an ongoing government shutdown and a winter storm warning, leading to operational chaos at one of the nation’s busiest hubs.

Flight Disruptions and Delays at Chicago O’Hare

According to data provided by Flightradar24, Chicago O’Hare’s struggles reflect broader issues within the U.S. aviation sector. The airport implemented a ground delay program from 11:50 yesterday until 00:59 this morning due to staffing shortages and adverse weather conditions. Average delays for departing flights reached 53 minutes, a sharp contrast to the 15-minute average at neighboring Chicago Midway Airport (MDW).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a statement highlighting concerns over the increasing risk of operational failures due to unpredictable staffing shortages. The FAA emphasized that, “With continued delays and unpredictable staffing shortages, which are driving fatigue, risk is further increasing, and the FAA is concerned with the system’s ability to maintain the current volume of operations.”

U.S. Airports Face Similar Challenges

While Chicago O’Hare led in operational disruptions, other major U.S. airports also faced significant delays and cancellations. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) ranked second on the list with 150 cancellations and 270 delays. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) reported 63 cancellations, constituting just 9% of its operations, but half of its flights were delayed.

The remainder of the top ten included LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in fourth, Boston Logan Airport (BOS) in fifth, Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) in seventh, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in eighth, Orlando International Airport (MCO) in ninth, and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in tenth. Notably, Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) was the only airport outside the U.S. to feature in this list, recording 64 cancellations and 292 delays, with disruptions attributed to the same winter storm.

The ongoing government shutdown has placed additional strain on air traffic controllers, who are federal employees required to work without pay. Stress levels have reportedly risen, leading to increased sick calls and an already severe staffing shortage becoming more pronounced. Consequently, U.S. regulators have been prompted to limit capacities at major airports, contributing to the widespread disruptions.

As the situation continues to unfold, U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to penalize air traffic controllers who take time off during the shutdown while suggesting bonuses for those who remain on duty. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that if the shutdown persists, air traffic could “reduce to a trickle,” underscoring the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing crisis.

The impact of these disruptions extends beyond the airports themselves, affecting travelers and regional connectivity across the nation. As airlines and airports navigate these challenges, the focus remains on restoring normal operations amid a complex web of external pressures.