CALGARY- Friday marked the busiest travel day of the year, but Mother Nature had other plans for thousands of people trying to get home for the holidays.
Storms in the United States, Ontario and on Canada’s west coast have led to major delays for air travellers, prompting airlines to issue warnings for passengers scheduled to fly out this weekend.
“We were coming out of Fort McMurray, were delayed coming out, flew into Edmonton, then had to board right away,” says one traveller at the Calgary International Airport. “They held the plane for us, because we were two hours behind. We came here, and had to spend the night in a motel.”
“It’s hectic, but it’s not bad,” added Airdrie’s April Maxwell, who was heading to Saskatoon with her daughter. “We came early, so it’s not bad.”
However, many flights were delayed by at least an hour, while others were completely cancelled. Passengers were urged to pack properly to avoid delays at security.
Many flights were delayed by at least an hour, and passengers were urged to pack properly to avoid delays at security.
“You want to make sure if you are bringing wrapped gifts that you are checking that luggage, and that if you are bringing any carry-ons try not to wrap your gifts until your reach your destination,” recommends Brie Ogle from WestJet. “That way, the screening is a lot easier for those involved.”
She adds that WestJet expected to have its biggest single day record ever, with an estimated 60-thousand passengers scheduled to fly around the country.
Highways were also busy, and travellers were urged to drive for the snowy conditions.
“Winter tires are a must, so make sure your tires are in good shape,” suggests Terry Clovechok from the Alberta Motor Association. “Carry an emergency kit, make sure you have extra winter clothing, extra blankets, mitts, gloves, toques, winter boots, and along with your emergency kit you want a shovel in case you do get stuck.”
Airline passengers are asked to check the status of their flight before heading to the airport.
For weather updates, download the free Skytracker weather app.
-With files from Gary Bobrovitz and Bindu Suri
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