On Wednesday 25th September, thousands of travellers were stranded at airports as United, Delta, American, Alaska and other airlines canceled 118 flights across several major US airports.

Expectedly travel plans for passengers were disrupted, in cities like Washington, New York, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Boston, and beyond. Passengers experienced long delays and confusion as these cancellations affect both domestic and international routes.

The disruptions affected major airports across the United States, with Boston Logan International (KBOS), Newark Liberty International (KEWR), Los Angeles International (KLAX), and Chicago O’Hare International (KORD) among the hardest hit. Additionally, numerous cities such as Memphis, Seattle, Phoenix, and San Diego have faced significant delays and cancellations, impacting passengers’ travel plans. International travelers are also feeling the brunt of the delays, as flights from airports such as London Heathrow (EGLL), Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), and Toronto City Centre (CYTZ) have faced cancellations and delays, creating further travel complications for those heading to or from the U.S..

United Airlines, according to reports experienced a “connectivity issue”. This technology problem forced a nationwide ground stop for the airline’s flights. The issue was resolved and the ground stop was lifted after approximately 30 minutes, but the incident resulted in significant delays and a ripple effect throughout the airline’s network.

Flight cancellations are caused by a combination of factors, including severe weather conditions, technical issues with aircraft, staff shortages (pilots, flight attendants, air traffic controllers), issues within the national aviation system such as traffic volume and air traffic control challenges, and sometimes even issues within the airline’s control like operational decisions. A late-arriving aircraft, where a previous flight with the same plane was delayed, can also trigger a cascade of cancellations and delays, according to NerdWallet. A traveler in this season should be intentional to expect delays and provide for his or her comfort even at the airports.

As the world approaches the festive periods of December, Christmas and New Year holidays, Travellers are going expect some delays, due to several reasons as listed earlier including a possibility of belegerence against the United States. This should be one of the realities of our times. Travelers should make plans that will make their experiences less stressful, such as planning to have more waiting time, at the airport,by arriving and checking in early, keep close updates from their airline, watch Travel/Flight Screens to follow flight changes.

@WASH II. Thousands stranded at airports 2 years ago at Christmas, unsure of making it home for the New Year.

This will be nothing too serious if we plan ahead, avoid complicated routes, and keep it all simple. Take along a good book to read have some snacks to help your relaxation, and have your phone fully charged,should charging points not be enough at the airports.

The Holly Bible has proven to be a good companion during traveling. Decide to read through a couple of chapters during your waiting time and flight. Read it for entertainment and imagination, its usually very awesome. If you prayed and handed your journey over to God and The Company of Angels, keep that faith and trust God. Never loose your faith or join in any confusion. If you relax and bask under God’s Glory, confussion can become entertainment for you and to you.

Plan intentionally to have a peaceful time even when flight cancellations occur. Subscribe to a movie channel or have your Utube ready to keep you good company at the airport. Be at alert too, bad people abound to take advantage of you, especially if are a Senior like me.

Remember that a mischief maker can inflict a cyber-attack that can cause delays at your airport. Those nutty bad heads,God shall sieve them into LawEnforcement. Stay around fellow Seniors and warm into their good hearts to look after your luggage if you have to move around to enjoy your window shopping or use the restroom.

It’s your time, your life, your money,your event, make the most out your travel time and experiences. Remember you are entitled to compensations, refunds, and hotel stay-over for free, should delays extend unreasonably,so get that confirmation from the Airline when you book your flights. Choose an airline that cares and respects your good age.

Bishop Clement Udegbe Writes from Florida USA