(Source – ABC Action News)
Tampa International Airport experienced over 200 delays on Wednesday, ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, causing frustration among travelers. Airport officials clarified that the delays were primarily affecting inbound flights rather than departing ones.
One passenger, Theresa Kennedy, expressed her frustration, stating that her flight was delayed twice. Arriving at the airport early in the morning, Kennedy and her husband were concerned about their puppy, for whom they had to make alternative arrangements due to the delayed arrival back home. “I was very angry,” Kennedy said. “If you want to charge extra, charge extra, that’s fine, we were worried about her.” Despite the inconvenience, Kennedy emphasized the need to return home in time for work on Thursday.
Tampa International Airport: Be prepared with entertainment
Sally Edelman, another traveler, shared her experience of delayed flights to and from Tampa. Despite the setbacks, Edelman maintained a positive outlook, saying, “We were delayed getting here from Greenville, so we’re used to it and we just make do.” She advised fellow passengers to be prepared with entertainment, such as movies and books, along with plenty of snacks to endure the delays.
While acknowledging the inconvenience, Edelman highlighted that her family still enjoyed their time in Florida over the holidays. “It was great, being from South Carolina,” she said. “It’s cold, snow, we have fires going, this time it was on the beach; shorts and t-shirts, which was nice.” Despite the numerous delays, a few flights were canceled, prompting airport officials to advise passengers to check with their respective airlines before heading to the airport.
Southwest travelers navigating the post-Christmas travel rush
The reasons behind the surge in delays were not specified in the report, leaving travelers and airport authorities alike navigating the challenges caused by disruptions in the flight schedules. As Tampa International Airport grapples with this influx of delays, passengers are urged to stay informed and plan accordingly to mitigate any inconveniences during their travels. Disruptions have been widespread at Orlando International Airport during this holiday season, and now, the Federal Aviation Administration is providing insights into the reasons behind them.
On Tuesday, the FAA confirmed to FOX 35 that inclement weather in the Northeast, storms over Charlotte, North Carolina, and a high volume of flights may have contributed to the challenges experienced at MCO. FOX 35’s Kelsie Cairns was present at MCO to interview some Southwest travelers navigating the post-Christmas travel rush on Tuesday. John Smith, en route to Colorado, remarked, “It’s pretty incredible that this many people are out and about.”
Tens of thousands of people passed through MCO during this period.
