DALLAS – A winter storm expected to hit North Texas on Thursday has already led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights in and out of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field, creating challenges for thousands traveling to the region for Friday’s Cotton Bowl.
Flight Cancellations: The Numbers
As of 7 a.m. Thursday, over 500 departing flights at DFW Airport had been canceled, along with 458 arriving flights, according to the flight tracking service FlightAware. At Dallas Love Field, approximately 100 flights in both directions have also been canceled.
The majority of these cancellations involve American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Envoy Air. American Airlines has issued a travel alert, proactively contacting passengers to rebook their flights.
Flight cancellations and delays are determined by individual airlines or air traffic control, with safety as the top priority.
Airport Preparations Underway
Dallas Love Field spokesperson Patrick Clarke assured travelers that the airport is fully prepared for the anticipated weather conditions.
“All hands are on deck,” Clarke said. “We have snowplow sweepers ready, along with anti-icing and de-icing agents. Crews are working around the clock, with some staying overnight to ensure we’re ready for whatever Mother Nature sends our way.”
The airport has stockpiled over 40,000 gallons of liquid de-icer and more than 166,000 pounds of sand and salt to keep runways and taxiways clear. Airlines, meanwhile, are responsible for de-icing aircraft, which may extend boarding and takeoff times.
“Passenger safety is our utmost priority,” Clarke emphasized. “If delays or cancellations occur, they are in the best interest of everyone’s safety.”
DFW Airport echoed similar sentiments, urging travelers to monitor road conditions, allow extra travel time, and check their flight status with airlines before heading to the airport.
American Airlines stated it is closely monitoring the storm, adjusting schedules, and waiving change fees for affected travelers. Customers can reschedule online or by calling reservations at 800-433-7300.
Thursday’s Weather Forecast
The forecast predicts a mix of sleet and rain throughout the day, with conditions varying by location. Northern areas are more likely to experience snow, while southern regions are expected to see mostly rain.
According to FOX 4 meteorologists, wet roads are anticipated during the day, transitioning to snow after sunset. Heavier snowfall is expected north and northeast of Dallas, with accumulations ranging from 1 to 3 inches in the DFW area and 3 to 6 inches in northern parts of the Metroplex.
Impact on the Cotton Bowl
The storm’s timing is significant as thousands of fans are expected to descend on North Texas for the Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium on Friday night. Despite the adverse weather, game organizers plan to proceed as scheduled.
To ease traffic and ensure safety, TxDOT is reallocating crews from South Texas to assist with road maintenance and manage game-related traffic in North Texas.
As the region braces for the winter storm, travelers and football fans are advised to plan ahead, stay informed, and prioritize safety.
