Air India has cancelled its flights to and from New York and Newark scheduled for February 23 following a severe winter storm alert issued across the northeastern United States. The airline said the cancellations were necessitated by heavy snowfall, strong winds, and poor visibility that could significantly disrupt airport operations.
Flights operating between Delhi/Mumbai and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as well as Newark Liberty International Airport have been affected. Airport authorities in the region warned of hazardous runway conditions, potential de-icing delays, and air traffic congestion as the storm intensifies.
In an official statement, Air India emphasised that passenger and crew safety remains its top priority. “Due to adverse weather conditions and forecasted snowstorm activity in the New York region, certain flights scheduled for February 23 have been cancelled. We regret the inconvenience caused and are extending full support to affected passengers,” the airline said.
Helpline Numbers Issued
Air India has released dedicated helpline numbers and urged travellers to check their flight status before proceeding to the airport. Passengers can contact the airline’s customer support centres or use the official website and mobile app to reschedule flights or seek refunds.
The airline is offering:
- Complimentary rebooking on the next available flight
- Full refunds for cancelled sectors
- Flexible date change options without penalty
- Assistance with accommodation in select cases
Wider Travel Disruptions Expected
The winter storm is expected to bring several inches of snow along with freezing temperatures across New York and neighbouring states. Such weather events typically lead to cascading delays, aircraft rotations being disrupted, and crew scheduling challenges. Airlines often proactively cancel flights to avoid last-minute operational chaos and passenger inconvenience at airports.
Meteorological agencies have warned that conditions may worsen through the day, with wind gusts potentially causing further flight disruptions. Travellers are advised to allow extra time for travel once services resume, as airports work through backlogs.
Monitoring the Situation
Air India stated that it is closely monitoring weather updates and coordinating with airport authorities in the United States. Operations are expected to resume once weather conditions stabilise and safety clearances are provided.
Passengers booked on flights in the coming days are advised to remain alert for further announcements, especially if the storm system lingers longer than forecast.