More than 500 flights were cancelled and approximately 4,000 delayed on July 14, 2026, at major airports serving the New York metropolitan area, including John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, and Philadelphia International Airport.
FAA Traffic Management Procedures Implemented
The Federal Aviation Administration is using ground stops and ground delays to manage air traffic flow into these airports. A ground stop halts certain flights at their origin airports, preventing departure until the restriction is lifted. Ground delays allow flights to depart but assign specific takeoff times to maintain safe spacing and minimize airborne congestion and holding patterns near the destination
airports.
Severe Weather and Staffing Constraints Cause Disruptions
Severe weather conditions combined with air traffic control staffing shortages at the facilities handling flights into JFK, LaGuardia, Newark, and Philadelphia airports have slowed operations, prompting the FAA to implement these traffic management strategies. These measures aim to reduce airspace congestion and prevent delays from escalating further.
Ground delays and ground stops are expected intermittently throughout the evening of July 14, extending the period of travel disruptions. Real-time updates on flight cancellations and delays can be accessed via the Flight Aware website, while the FAA website provides the latest advisories and information on active ground restrictions.
