Stormy Weather Wreaks Havoc at Charlotte Airport

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) faced a rough day on March 5, 2025, as severe weather caused chaos. Thunderstorms and strong winds led to a massive disruption, with 179 flights canceled and 351 delayed. This made CLT the most affected airport in the US that day. The storm hit hard, especially between 9 am and 11 am. High winds and heavy rain grounded many flights. By 11 am, the weather started to ease, and operations began to recover. By the next day, things were mostly back to normal, with only a few delays and no more cancelations. PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines, was hit the worst. They had to cancel 130 flights and delay 71 more. American Airlines itself had 28 cancelations and 177 delays. Other airlines like Piedmont, Endeavor Air, and Delta also faced significant disruptions. The storm wasn't just a local issue. Brisbane Airport in Australia was also heavily affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred. All flights were suspended until the storm passed. Globally, PSA Airlines had the most cancelations, with 248 flights grounded. Charlotte Douglas is no stranger to high traffic. In 2024, it saw 58. 8 million travelers, a 10% increase from the previous year. The airport is also undergoing a major expansion, adding 175, 000 square feet to the terminal lobby and renovating 191, 000 square feet of existing space. The airport is a major hub for American Airlines, which operates 2, 685 weekly flights from CLT. Other major operators include PSA with 1, 175 flights and Piedmont with 714. Top destinations from Charlotte include La Guardia, Orlando, and Atlanta. Weather disruptions are a common challenge for airports. They highlight the importance of preparedness and flexibility in airport operations. Passengers should always be ready for delays or cancelations, especially during stormy seasons.