Severe summer storms on August 11, 2026, caused extensive disruptions at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). ORD recorded more than 120 canceled flights and over 400 delayed departures, while JFK and LaGuardia combined saw over 100 cancellations and upwards of 250 delays.
Airline Waivers and Rebooking Policies
American Airlines waived change fees and fare differences for affected travelers through ORD, JFK, LGA, and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) for travel between August 10 and 13, applicable to tickets purchased by August 9. United Airlines offered fee-free rebooking for Chicago flights departing on August 11, allowing
rescheduling between August 9 and 14 within the same cabin without paying fare differences. Delta Air Lines extended fee-free rebooking to passengers with tickets issued on or before August 10 for flights through August 13 at JFK, LGA, EWR, and Westchester County Airport (HPN). JetBlue waived change and cancel fees and fare differences for flights involving JFK, LGA, EWR, HPN, Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP), or Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) on August 10 and 11, permitting rebooking through August 15.
Weather Impact Across Midwest and New York Metropolitan Airports
The disruptions resulted from severe summer thunderstorms with line storms and heavy rainfall impacting Chicago and the New York
metropolitan area. These weather conditions caused significant operational challenges leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations at key U.S. hubs mentioned on August 11.
Passenger Rebooking Guidance
Passengers affected by cancellations and delays are encouraged to manage rebookings through airline mobile applications or online portals prior to arriving at the airport. This approach is supported by all major carriers managing disrupted travel at ORD, JFK, LGA, and Newark airports on August 11, 2026.
