Severe storms over Texas on July 17 and 18, 2026, led to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ground stops at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field (DAL), causing widespread flight delays and cancellations across the United States. By the evening of July 17, more than 3,600 flights were delayed and 83 canceled nationwide as a direct result of the weather disruptions.
Flight Delays and Cancellations at Major Airports
Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport reported 693 delayed flights and an FAA-issued ground stop on July 17. Departures at DFW remained approximately 45 minutes behind schedule that afternoon with delays continuing to increase. Dallas Love Field also faced
ground stops due to localized storm activity.
In the Washington, D.C. area, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport recorded 19 cancellations and 173 delays by the evening of July 17. Chicago O’Hare International Airport showed 260 delayed flights and nine cancellations. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport each experienced over 80 flight delays.
Among carriers, American Airlines reported 577 delayed flights as of Wednesday evening, reflecting its heavy operational presence at Dallas-Fort Worth. United Airlines and regional operator SkyWest each reported hundreds of delays, compounding the nationwide disruption.
Storm Severity and Impact in Texas
The storms that caused the air traffic disruptions unleashed more than
a foot of rain across the Hill Country west of San Antonio, Texas. AccuWeather documented a tornado touchdown west of San Antonio amid a flash flood emergency. Governor Greg Abbott confirmed two deaths related to flooding from the storms in the same region, with rescue efforts ongoing.
Continuing Disruptions on July 18
On July 18, a second consecutive day of ground stops was implemented at Dallas-Fort Worth and Dallas Love Field. Delays at both airports averaged about 90 minutes as of Thursday afternoon, indicating persistent operational challenges from the intense weather system.
Airline Guidance and Operational Challenges
Airlines urged travelers to follow real-time flight status through airline apps and websites.
Passengers with canceled flights were advised to rebook promptly and review refund and rebooking policies for potential overnight delays. The storm-related ground stops and delays have strained airport and airline operations in major hubs impacted by the Texas weather system.
