Japan is experiencing another wave of travel disruptions as heavy snowfall and operational challenges cause widespread flight cancellations and delays at Tokyo Airport. Passengers traveling with Emirates, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, Air Canada, Japan Airlines, and more are facing unexpected schedule changes, with many struggling to rebook flights. Over two hundred flights have been delayed, and many have been canceled, leading to long queues, packed terminals, and growing frustration among travelers. As airlines work to manage the disruptions, passengers are urged to check flight statuses regularly and prepare for possible extended delays.
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, has been hit by a historic snowstorm, causing massive travel disruptions and affecting thousands of flights. The extreme weather forced the cancellation of 12 flights and delays for 254 flights, leaving passengers stranded at Tokyo Int’l (Haneda) as airports struggled to manage the impact.
12 Flights Canceled and 254 Delayed as Heavy Snow Hampers Air Travel
The storm wreaked havoc on air travel, with major airports—including New Chitose Airport—experiencing widespread cancellations and delays. Airlines such as Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) were forced to adjust schedules as runways became unusable due to relentless snowfall.
Obihiro and Kushiro, two cities in eastern Hokkaido, recorded a staggering 129 centimeters (4 feet) of snow, making ground operations nearly impossible. Airport staff raced to de-ice planes and clear runways, but the continuous snowfall made resuming normal operations a challenge.
Rail and Road Networks Also Impacted by Extreme Weather
The travel chaos extended beyond air travel, with train and road networks suffering major disruptions. JR Hokkaido, the region’s main railway operator, suspended multiple services due to the heavy snowfall, leaving commuters and tourists stranded.
Meanwhile, highways were closed, and local roads became impassable as snow piled up faster than plows could clear it. Authorities urged drivers to avoid travel as hazardous conditions led to numerous accidents and road closures.
Passengers Stranded as Uncertainty Grows
With 12 flights canceled and 254 delayed at Tokyo Int’l (Haneda), thousands of travelers found themselves stuck at airports, train stations, and bus terminals. Passengers at New Chitose Airport faced long lines as they scrambled to rebook flights, with some being told they might not secure a new departure for days.
Hotels near transport hubs quickly reached capacity, leaving many with few options but to wait out the storm in terminals and waiting areas. Airlines continued working to reschedule flights, but ongoing snowfall meant that even rebooked flights faced delays.
Tokyo Int’l (Haneda): Flight Cancellations & Delays by Airline
- All Nippon Airways (ANA): 8 canceled (2%), 84 delayed (22%)
- Japan Airlines (JAL): 2 canceled (0%), 83 delayed (18%)
- ANA Wings: 2 canceled (2%), 13 delayed (13%)
- Air Do: 0 canceled, 20 delayed (22%)
- Air France: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (50%)
- Air Japan: 0 canceled, 2 delayed (25%)
- China Eastern: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (12%)
- Cathay Pacific: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (25%)
- Shanghai Airlines: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (25%)
- Finnair: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (50%)
- ITA Airways: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (50%)
- Korean Air: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (12%)
- Qantas: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (25%)
- StarFlyer: 0 canceled, 9 delayed (10%)
- Singapore Airlines: 0 canceled, 2 delayed (33%)
- Skymark: 0 canceled, 14 delayed (17%)
- Solaseed Air: 0 canceled, 16 delayed (15%)
- Emirates: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (50%)
- Air Canada: 0 canceled, 1 delayed (50%)
Total Flights Affected: 12 flights canceled, 254 delayed. Severe snowfall continues to impact travel in Hokkaido. Passengers should check flight statuses before heading to the airport.
More Disruptions Expected as Snowfall Continues
Weather forecasters warn that additional snowfall is expected in the coming days, raising concerns that travel disruptions could extend even further. Airlines have urged passengers to check flight statuses frequently and consider postponing travel plans if possible.
With 12 flights canceled, 254 delayed, and train and road networks severely impacted, Hokkaido remains in the grip of a winter storm that has caused one of the worst travel disruptions in recent memory. Travelers are advised to stay updated on weather and transportation advisories as authorities work to restore normal operations.
The post Japan Faces New Travel Disruptions as Many Flights Are Canceled and Over Two Hundred Delayed at Tokyo Airport Due to Snow Storm Affecting Emirates, Qantas, Singapore, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, Air Canada, Japan Airlines and More appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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