Alaska Airlines cancels 20% of Seattle departures over two days due to weather

Travelers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport are still facing delays and cancellations due to winter weather conditions and staffing issues this week.

Travelers at Sea-Tac Airport grapple with ‘exasperating’ week of delays, cancellations

With more snow on the way overnight, the situation at the airport isn’t expected to improve quickly.

SEA is open and in active cold weather operations. We’re preparing for another snow event that is forecasted to begin tonight through Thursday. We are continuing snow and ice maintenance of runways, taxiways, and the ramp areas. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/X2MUi8PQOc

— Seattle-Tacoma Intl. Airport (@flySEA) December 29, 2021

The airport’s largest carrier, Alaska Airlines, took the pre-emptive step of cancelling 20% of its flights out of Seattle over the next two days — Wednesday and Thursday — with the hope of at least getting some flights out on time.

Alaska Airlines says it was a perfect storm of winter weather, displaced crew and aircraft, and the impact of the omicron variant of COVID-19 on staffing that led to the decision to cancel flights. The airline says the 20% reduction of Seattle departures will allow for additional time needed to de-ice aircraft, which is a requirement during winter weather.

Since so many passengers have to be rebooked, Alaska Airlines wants non-essential travelers to consider leaving on another date. Most of the people who have been impacted by the cancellations won’t be able to book another flight for at least three days since more snow is expected and seats are limited during an “already busy holiday week.”

Gee: A ‘real big shoutout’ to those working in airports, in snowy conditions

“We deeply apologize for the inconvenience this winter storm has on our guests and employees and are working hard to return to the level of service you know and expect from us, while operating safely,” said Constance von Muehlen, Alaska Airlines chief operating officer and executive vice president, in a written statement.

Alaska Airlines says the value of the ticket will be held until the passenger can travel again.

Check online or by email to see if your flight has been impacted, and do not go to the airport unless you have a confirmed flight and departure time.

The KIRO Radio Newsdesk contributed to this report.

Follow @http://twitter.com/Mynorthwest