Snowstorm in New York disrupts transatlantic flights across Europe

A severe snowstorm and temporary travel ban in New York have led to widespread flight cancellations between Europe and the United States today (23 February). Authorities expect 30 to 45 centimetres of snow, causing major disruption at airports including JFK, LaGuardia and Newark.

The impact is being felt across multiple European hubs. In addition to flights to New York, services to other destinations on the U.S. East Coast are also affected.

Examples of cancelled flights today

Amsterdam Schiphol – New York

• 10:45 – DL49 / AF5595 / KL6149 / VS3951 – cancelled
• 13:30 – KL641 / AF6698 / DL9348 / VS7130 – cancelled

Brussels Airport – New York

• 10:35 – SN501 / UA9929 – cancelled

Frankfurt Airport – New York

• 11:05 – UA43 – cancelled
• 13:30 – LH402 – cancelled
• 17:15 – UA75 – cancelled

London Heathrow – United States (East Coast)

• 13:05 – VS157 – Boston – cancelled
• 13:10 – BA067 – Philadelphia – cancelled
• 13:20 – VS045 – New York City – cancelled
• 13:30 – AA109 – Boston – cancelled

These cancellations show that the disruption is not limited to New York alone. Flights to other major East Coast destinations such as Boston and Philadelphia are also being affected as airlines adjust operations due to the severe weather conditions.

With thousands of flights cancelled in and out of the northeastern United States, further disruption across Europe cannot be ruled out.

No right to compensation snowstorm New York

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, airlines are not required to pay financial compensation when a cancellation is caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as extreme weather conditions. A snowstorm of this magnitude qualifies as such.

Duty of care still applies

Even in cases of extraordinary circumstances, airlines remain responsible for their duty of care. This means passengers are entitled to assistance, including meals and refreshments, hotel accommodation if necessary, and rebooking or a refund.

Large-scale, last-minute cancellations like these can place significant operational pressure on airlines. Rebooking thousands of passengers and arranging accommodation at short notice is complex and challenging.

However, if an airline fails to provide the required assistance, passengers may still have rights under EU law.

Travellers affected by cancellations are advised to monitor their airline’s communication closely and retain all relevant documentation.