Flight Delays Continue at Bay Area Airports

Weather causes havoc for holiday travelers

Travelers should expect more weather-related flight delays and cancellations at the Bay Area's three major airports Monday, according to airport officials.

San Francisco International Airport, Oakland International Airport and Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport all reported cancellations to Seattle and Portland-area airports.

Winter weather in the Northwest is the main cause of the problems, airport officials said. Improved weather conditions in the Bay Area have resulted in fewer delays today compared to Sunday, SFO airport duty manager Dan Dinnocenti said.

Winter weather conditions are also causing flight delays to the Northeast at all three airports, airport officials said. At Oakland, delays of up to one hour to Los Angeles-area airports are expected for Southwest airlines, airport spokeswoman Rosemary Barnes said.

Dinnocenti and Barnes said travelers should be prepared for long lines and persisting weather conditions at least until Christmas day.

"Smile and keep your patience," Dinnocenti advised. "Everybody will get through this."

All three airports reported a busy atmosphere over the holiday weekend. However, David Vossbrink, communications director at San Jose International Airport, said traffic at that airport is not as heavy as it was at this time last year.

"Our sense is that travel pattern is lighter this year because of the economy," Vossbrink said.

Still, airport officials are encouraging travelers to allow themselves extra time arriving at the airport. Long lines at baggage check-in are common during the holidays, as many travelers carry gifts and warm clothes. Barnes urged travelers to arrive at least 90 minutes early to avoid being stuck in line.

Dinnocenti and Barnes both advised travelers to check with carriers online or at the airport for the latest flight information.

 

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