Hundreds of flights bound for the United States were cancelled on November 14, 2026, at major Canadian airports including Toronto Pearson, Montreal-Trudeau, and Calgary International Airport. The cancellations followed a nationwide ground stop issued by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) caused by a telecommunications problem interfering with air traffic control.
Calgary International Airport Impact and FAA Ground Stop Lift
Calgary International Airport held U.S.-bound flights on the ground for several hours due to the FAA ground stop. Passengers were delayed inside terminals and on aircraft. Some travelers were seated aboard a plane prepared for departure when they were ordered to disembark after about an hour. The FAA lifted
the nationwide ground stop around 8:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Passenger Disruptions and Airline Responses
Passengers faced cancellations and delays, with many stranded in airport terminals or forced to secure overnight lodging at their own expense. Affected travelers included those on flights scheduled to U.S. destinations such as Denver. An Air Canada representative told at least one passenger that the airline would not reimburse costs incurred due to the FAA-related delay.
Official Statements and Passenger Perspectives
Calgary International Airport released a statement thanking travelers for their patience as schedules normalized post-ground stop and encouraged passengers to verify flight updates with airlines. Lloydminster resident Naji Zuain, whose flight was rebooked for
9 a.m. on November 15, described the experience of being ready to take off before the delay was announced. Zuain said, “It’s kind of unfair for them to have to cover each and every passengers’ expenses due to something that was no fault of their own,” adding, “It is what it is.”
