The Indian government announced taking action against “opportunistic pricing” by airlines amid widespread cancellations of IndiGo flights across the country. In a statement, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said that it has invoked “regulatory powers” amid the crisis to ensure that passengers are not exploited and that reasonable fares are charged across the affected routes. This comes as airfares surged significantly, with the Delhi to Bengaluru flight fare touching 1 lakh.

IndiGo Issues Statement on Flight Cancellations

Heavy snow and freezing rain in the UK lead to the closure of runways at major airports, resulting in significant flight delays. Watch in for more details!

UK: Heavy Snow Forces Flight Cancellations & Power Outages In UK

A pair of missing scissors led to the cancellation of 36 flights and a delay in another 201 flights at a Japanese airport over the weekend (Aug 17-18).&nbsp;

The domestic terminal at Hokkaido’s New Chitose Airport came to a standstill when flights were suspended for about two hours on Saturday morning during security checks. A pair of scissors went mission in a stone near the boarding gates, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at the airport.&nbsp;

The passengers were all clogged up in queues in the departure lounge as they were forced to retake security checks in order for the security authorities to locate the scissors.&nbsp;

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The scissors that went missing on Saturday were eventually found on Sunday, the announcement for which was made on Monday (Aug 19). However, the flights were eventually resumed on Saturday after several layers of security checks.&nbsp;

<h2>How a pair of missing scissors at Japan airport led to cancellation, delay of flights&nbsp;</h2>

The incident took place on Saturday (Aug 17), when a pair of scissors went missing near the boarding gates, prompting airport authorities to suspend security checks, according to a report by Yomiuri Shimbun.&nbsp;

Passengers who had already passed through security were required to undergo the screening process again, leading to confusion and flight delays.

In total, 201 flights were delayed, and 36 were cancelled due to the security lapse. Despite an extensive search, the scissors were not found, and normal operations resumed approximately two hours later.

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本日午前に札幌千歳空港にて保安上の確認を行いました影響で、札幌千歳空港を発着する便に、遅延や欠航が発生しています。 
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Hokkaido Airport, the operator of New Chitose Airport, announced on Monday that a worker at the store had found the scissors on Sunday. Authorities explained that they held off the announcement till Monday to confirm that the scissors found were the same as the lost ones.

Many travellers affected by the cancellations and delays were flying home after Japan’s annual Bon holiday.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has asked Hokkaido Airports to investigate the cause and prevent it from happening again.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sicily-superyacht-tragedy-who-is-mike-lynch-touted-as-uks-answer-to-bill-gates-751496">Sicily superyacht tragedy: Who is Mike Lynch, touted as UK's answer to Bill Gates</a>

"We recognise that this occurred as a result of insufficient storage and management systems at the store,” Hokkaido Airport said.&nbsp;

New Chitose is one of Japan’s busiest airports, serving the world's second-most travelled domestic air route – between Tokyo and Sapporo, according to aviation analytics company OAG. More than 15 million travellers used the airport in 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

A pair of missing scissors led to the cancellation of 36 flights and a delay in another 201 flights at a Japanese airport over the weekend (Aug 17-18). The domestic terminal at Hokkaido’s New Chitose Airport came to a standstill when flights were suspended for about two hours on Saturday morning during security checks.

A pair of missing scissors led to the cancellation of 36 flights and a delay in another 201 flights at a Japanese airport over the weekend (Aug 17-18). The domestic terminal at Hokkaido’s New Chitose Airport came to a standstill when flights were suspended for about two hours on Saturday morning during security checks. A pair of scissors went mission in a stone near the boarding gates, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at the airport. The passengers were all clogged up in queues in the departure lounge as they were forced to retake security checks in order for the security authorities to locate the scissors. Also Read | Switzerland offering $58,000 to fish out ammunition from lakes The scissors that went missing on Saturday were eventually found on Sunday, the announcement for which was made on Monday (Aug 19). However, the flights were eventually resumed on Saturday after several layers of security checks. How a pair of missing scissors at Japan airport led to cancellation, delay of flights The incident took place on Saturday (Aug 17), when a pair of scissors went missing near the boarding gates, prompting airport authorities to suspend security checks, according to a report by Yomiuri Shimbun. Passengers who had already passed through security were required to undergo the screening process again, leading to confusion and flight delays. In total, 201 flights were delayed, and 36 were cancelled due to the security lapse. Despite an extensive search, the scissors were not found, and normal operations resumed approximately two hours later. 本日午前に札幌千歳空港にて保安上の確認を行いました影響で、札幌千歳空港を発着する便に、遅延や欠航が発生しています。 現在定刻での出発を予定している便についても、急遽遅延や欠航となる可能性もございます。 ✈最新情報はhttps://t.co/zlMiUlpVdKから — ＡＮＡ運航の見通し情報 (@ANA_flight_info) August 17, 2024 × Hokkaido Airport, the operator of New Chitose Airport, announced on Monday that a worker at the store had found the scissors on Sunday. Authorities explained that they held off the announcement till Monday to confirm that the scissors found were the same as the lost ones. Many travellers affected by the cancellations and delays were flying home after Japan’s annual Bon holiday. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has asked Hokkaido Airports to investigate the cause and prevent it from happening again. Also Read | Sicily superyacht tragedy: Who is Mike Lynch, touted as UK's answer to Bill Gates "We recognise that this occurred as a result of insufficient storage and management systems at the store,” Hokkaido Airport said. New Chitose is one of Japan’s busiest airports, serving the world's second-most travelled domestic air route – between Tokyo and Sapporo, according to aviation analytics company OAG. More than 15 million travellers used the airport in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 200 flights disrupted at Japanese airport after scissors go missing

India's cold desert Leh-Ladakh is facing mass flight cancellations due to "too hot" weather. About a dozen flights have been cancelled as the mercury soared to almost 35 degree Celsius over the past week. This has left passengers stranded at the Leh Airport, with the country's low-cost carrier IndiGo blocking flight booking till July 31.

On Monday, IndiGo posted regarding reasons for the cancellation of flights and promised a refund for its users in a post on X. "High ground temperatures and runway restrictions in #Leh have necessitated the cancellation of all flights for today. If you wish to re-book or claim a refund, visit https://bit.ly/3MxSLeE We regret the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding," the post read.

It is likely the first time that so many flights have been cancelled at Leh Airport due to high temperatures, according to one airport source quoted by the Times of India. “Last year, the temperature was not so high as to affect flights,” the official said.

<h2>High temperatures in Leh</h2>

Leh sits at an altitude of 11,000 feet and temperature here drops to as low as -20 degrees Celsius in the winter. But, this time the temperature is constantly hovering above the 30-degree Celsius mark. The India Meteorological Department reported temperature on Thursday (Jul 25) at 29.5 degrees Celsius, on Saturday at 32.5 degrees Celsius and on Sunday at 33.5 degrees Celsius.

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The mercury even touched 36 degrees Celsius in some areas, the Times of India reported.

<h2>Why flights don't operate in high temperatures in Leh?</h2>

Leh's Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is one of the highest in the world. At high altitudes, air temperature as well as air pressure get decreased. Due to this, air molecules get expanded and overall air density gets decreased.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiHpd-r1c6HAxWmTGwGHSvnMm4QxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-rescues-80-people-stranded-amid-snowfall-in-ladakh-708713" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-rescues-80-people-stranded-amid-snowfall-in-ladakh-708713&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiHpd-r1c6HAxWmTGwGHSvnMm4QxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Indian Army rescues 80 people stranded amid snowfall in Ladakh</a>

Due to reduced air density, oxygen level also drops in the air, which causes the aircraft engines to lose efficiency. In Leh, air pressure is naturally low. When temperature increases, the air density gets further reduced. It severely impedes the aircraft engines' performance. In extreme conditions, the engines may even fail to provide enough thrust to keep the plane afloat.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's cold desert Leh-Ladakh is facing mass flight cancellations due to "too hot" weather. About a dozen flights have been cancelled as the mercury soared to almost 35 degree Celsius over the past week.

India's cold desert Leh-Ladakh is facing mass flight cancellations due to "too hot" weather. About a dozen flights have been cancelled as the mercury soared to almost 35 degree Celsius over the past week. This has left passengers stranded at the Leh Airport, with the country's low-cost carrier IndiGo blocking flight booking till July 31. On Monday, IndiGo posted regarding reasons for the cancellation of flights and promised a refund for its users in a post on X. "High ground temperatures and runway restrictions in #Leh have necessitated the cancellation of all flights for today. If you wish to re-book or claim a refund, visit https://bit.ly/3MxSLeE We regret the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding," the post read. It is likely the first time that so many flights have been cancelled at Leh Airport due to high temperatures, according to one airport source quoted by the Times of India. “Last year, the temperature was not so high as to affect flights,” the official said. High temperatures in Leh Leh sits at an altitude of 11,000 feet and temperature here drops to as low as -20 degrees Celsius in the winter. But, this time the temperature is constantly hovering above the 30-degree Celsius mark. The India Meteorological Department reported temperature on Thursday (Jul 25) at 29.5 degrees Celsius, on Saturday at 32.5 degrees Celsius and on Sunday at 33.5 degrees Celsius. Also read: Shinkun La tunnel: Indian PM Modi makes `first blast` of world`s highest tunnel in Ladakh - Top features The mercury even touched 36 degrees Celsius in some areas, the Times of India reported. Why flights don't operate in high temperatures in Leh? Leh's Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is one of the highest in the world. At high altitudes, air temperature as well as air pressure get decreased. Due to this, air molecules get expanded and overall air density gets decreased. Also read: Indian Army rescues 80 people stranded amid snowfall in Ladakh Due to reduced air density, oxygen level also drops in the air, which causes the aircraft engines to lose efficiency. In Leh, air pressure is naturally low. When temperature increases, the air density gets further reduced. It severely impedes the aircraft engines' performance. In extreme conditions, the engines may even fail to provide enough thrust to keep the plane afloat. (With inputs from agencies)

Mass flight cancellations from Leh as India’s cold desert faces ‘too hot’ weather

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a warning about possible flight rerouting and delays in various regions, including the Northeast, Atlanta, Denver, and Florida airports, due to adverse weather conditions in the United States,

Concurrently, severe thunderstorm watches have been activated from New England to Washington, DC, with New York City's airports experiencing significant impacts and delays, according to ABC news.

As the region braces for severe storms and potential flash floods, New England is also facing the onset of a heatwave, which is expected to persist for several days.

<h2>Flight disruptions and cancellations</h2>

The FAA cautions that flights across the Northeast, as well as in major airports such as Atlanta, Denver, and Florida, may be rerouted and held due to the impending severe weather conditions. As of the present, over 730 U.S. flights have already been cancelled on Thursday (July 27), and the situation remains closely monitored.

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<h2>Impact on New York City airports</h2>

Among the airports facing the most considerable disruptions are John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport in New York City. Flight delays at JFK have surpassed an average of three hours, causing inconvenience and frustration to&nbsp;travellers.

<h2>Severe thunderstorm warnings and flood watch</h2>

Severe thunderstorm watches have been put in place for Thursday afternoon and evening, stretching from New England through New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC.&nbsp;The forecast indicates the potential for slow-moving thunderstorms, bringing heavy rainfall and the risk of flash flooding. New England, including cities like Hartford, Connecticut, and Boston, is under a flood watch, adding to concerns of water-related disruptions.

Also watch |&nbsp;US: Indian student found starving &amp; abandoned in Chicago; woman's mother writes to Jaishankar

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<h2>Expected resolution and heatwave forecast</h2>

Fortunately, the threat of severe thunderstorms in the Northeast diminished by Thursday night. However, a new challenge emerges as the region is poised to encounter its first heatwave of the summer. From Thursday through Saturday, temperatures are anticipated to soar, with heat indices surpassing 100 degrees in New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. The combination of high temperatures and humidity will likely lead to uncomfortable and potentially dangerous conditions for residents and travellers alike.

As the FAA takes precautionary measures to manage flight disruptions, travellers are advised to stay informed about their flights and plan for potential delays.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a warning about possible flight rerouting and delays in various regions, including the Northeast, Atlanta, Denver, and Florida airports, due to adverse weather conditions in the United States, Concurrently, severe thunderstorm watches have been activated from New England to Washington, DC, with New York City's airports experiencing significant impacts and delays, according to ABC news.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a warning about possible flight rerouting and delays in various regions, including the Northeast, Atlanta, Denver, and Florida airports, due to adverse weather conditions in the United States, Concurrently, severe thunderstorm watches have been activated from New England to Washington, DC, with New York City's airports experiencing significant impacts and delays, according to ABC news. As the region braces for severe storms and potential flash floods, New England is also facing the onset of a heatwave, which is expected to persist for several days. Flight disruptions and cancellations The FAA cautions that flights across the Northeast, as well as in major airports such as Atlanta, Denver, and Florida, may be rerouted and held due to the impending severe weather conditions. As of the present, over 730 U.S. flights have already been cancelled on Thursday (July 27), and the situation remains closely monitored. Also read | US President Biden acknowledges seventh grandchild for first time Impact on New York City airports Among the airports facing the most considerable disruptions are John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport in New York City. Flight delays at JFK have surpassed an average of three hours, causing inconvenience and frustration to travellers. Severe thunderstorm warnings and flood watch Severe thunderstorm watches have been put in place for Thursday afternoon and evening, stretching from New England through New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. The forecast indicates the potential for slow-moving thunderstorms, bringing heavy rainfall and the risk of flash flooding. New England, including cities like Hartford, Connecticut, and Boston, is under a flood watch, adding to concerns of water-related disruptions. Also watch | US: Indian student found starving & abandoned in Chicago; woman's mother writes to Jaishankar Expected resolution and heatwave forecast Fortunately, the threat of severe thunderstorms in the Northeast diminished by Thursday night. However, a new challenge emerges as the region is poised to encounter its first heatwave of the summer. From Thursday through Saturday, temperatures are anticipated to soar, with heat indices surpassing 100 degrees in New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. The combination of high temperatures and humidity will likely lead to uncomfortable and potentially dangerous conditions for residents and travellers alike. As the FAA takes precautionary measures to manage flight disruptions, travellers are advised to stay informed about their flights and plan for potential delays. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Weather causes over 700 flight cancellations, further disruptions expected

Southwest Airlines will refund tickets and reimburse passengers for other related expenses they incurred as a result of the mass cancellations a few days back. Thousands of people were left stranded across the country after the airline scrapped around 2,000 airlines as the winter storm raged in the U.S.&nbsp;On Wednesday, at least 2,600 flights were cancelled due to bad weather, of which nearly all of them belonged to Southwest. The rest of the US airlines together account for a little more than 100 of those cancellations, reports CNN.

Southwest Airlines' chief commercial officer, Ryan Green, told reporters on Thursday that the payments will take several weeks but will cover the costs people incurred when they were forced to make alternative travel arrangements. This will include the money they spent on meals and gas. The company will also pay to ship people’s baggage to them.

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Other airlines, including American Airlines and United, said they would place a price cap on the tickets to help those affected by the cancellations. Southwest Airlines planned to return to normal operations Friday, with minimal disruptions.

While Delta has implemented “walk-up fare caps in US domestic markets”, Alaska Airlines told Axios that it will also cut fares in certain cities, even though it already has a ceiling on its tickets.&nbsp;

The airline cancelled 2,363 flights on Thursday, data from Flightaware.com indicates. On Wednesday, Southwest cancellations stood at 2,510. Federal authorities said they will investigate the matter.

"With consecutive days of extreme winter weather across our network behind us, continuing challenges are impacting our customers and employees in a significant way that is unacceptable," Southwest had said in a statement.

While a major part of the U.S. was battling a historic winter storm, leading to holiday travel being disrupted, Southwest cancelled flights even in places where the storm did not have an impact, such as California.

There were reports of long queues, days-long delays and stranded passengers contending with Southwest agents who seemed helpless, some on the verge of tears.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Southwest Airlines will refund tickets and reimburse passengers for other related expenses they incurred as a result of the mass cancellations a few days back. Thousands of people were left stranded across the country after the airline scrapped around 2,000 airlines as the winter storm raged in the U.

Southwest Airlines will refund tickets and reimburse passengers for other related expenses they incurred as a result of the mass cancellations a few days back. Thousands of people were left stranded across the country after the airline scrapped around 2,000 airlines as the winter storm raged in the U.S. On Wednesday, at least 2,600 flights were cancelled due to bad weather, of which nearly all of them belonged to Southwest. The rest of the US airlines together account for a little more than 100 of those cancellations, reports CNN. Southwest Airlines' chief commercial officer, Ryan Green, told reporters on Thursday that the payments will take several weeks but will cover the costs people incurred when they were forced to make alternative travel arrangements. This will include the money they spent on meals and gas. The company will also pay to ship people’s baggage to them. Also Read | Southwest Airlines cancels over 2,000 flights amid winter storm Other airlines, including American Airlines and United, said they would place a price cap on the tickets to help those affected by the cancellations. Southwest Airlines planned to return to normal operations Friday, with minimal disruptions. While Delta has implemented “walk-up fare caps in US domestic markets”, Alaska Airlines told Axios that it will also cut fares in certain cities, even though it already has a ceiling on its tickets. The airline cancelled 2,363 flights on Thursday, data from Flightaware.com indicates. On Wednesday, Southwest cancellations stood at 2,510. Federal authorities said they will investigate the matter. "With consecutive days of extreme winter weather across our network behind us, continuing challenges are impacting our customers and employees in a significant way that is unacceptable," Southwest had said in a statement. While a major part of the U.S. was battling a historic winter storm, leading to holiday travel being disrupted, Southwest cancelled flights even in places where the storm did not have an impact, such as California. There were reports of long queues, days-long delays and stranded passengers contending with Southwest agents who seemed helpless, some on the verge of tears. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Southwest Airlines will reimburse passengers following mass flight cancellations

The massive winter storm raging in the United States continues to disrupt travel plans for many as thousands of flights remained canceled on Tuesday as well. There has been mayhem at the airport with massive flight cancellations.

Southwest Airlines faces storm of criticism, around 12,000 flight cancellations due to storm

In pics: Rwanda asylum flight cancelled after legal action

In pics: British travellers hit by airport chaos as flight cancellations continue

The Heathrow Airport in London suffered 600,000 flight cancellation in December last year as cases related to the Omicron variant surged in the United Kingdom.

Airport authorities are demanding an end of coronavirus testing for those who have been fully inoculated as passengers are abandoning their plans due to uncertainty in restrictions.

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"Covid-19 continues to pose significant challenges for the travel industry," Heathrow said in a statement.

With the Omicron coronavirus variant stalling recovery prospects, the number of passengers passing through London's main airport dropped more than 12 percent last year.

Also see<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pics-brits-angrily-contrast-own-lives-during-covid-lockdown-when-pm-johnson-partied-443884" hreflang="en">&nbsp;| Brits angrily contrast own lives during Covid lockdown when PM Johnson partied</a>

The airport's chief executive John Holland-Kaye said, "There are currently travel restrictions, such as testing, on all Heathrow routes."

"The aviation industry will only fully recover when these are all lifted and there is no risk that they will be reimposed at short notice, a situation which is likely to be years away."&nbsp;

Britain still requires all inbound travellers to take either a PCR or a rapid lateral flow test a maximum of 48 hours before departure, a measure Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said would be reviewed in the second week of January.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-would-be-a-better-prime-minister-for-uk-than-boris-johnson-poll-443631">Also read |&nbsp;Rishi Sunak would be a better prime minister for UK than Boris Johnson: Poll</a>

"Consumer confidence in travel has suffered a significant setback, which will outlast these restrictions," said Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of travel association ABTA.

The airport welcomed 19.4 million passengers last year, less than one-quarter of the level in 2019 before the pandemic struck. Passenger numbers dropped 12.3 percent compared with 2020.

The Omicron variant was first detected in November last year in southern Africa and Hong Kong and has so far has been reported in at least 89 countries.

More than 150,000 people have died after catching coronavirus in the United Kingdom as per the British government. It reported that deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test had reached 150,057 since the start of the pandemic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Heathrow Airport in London suffered 600,000 flight cancellation in December last year as cases related to the Omicron variant surged in the United Kingdom. Airport authorities are demanding an end of coronavirus testing for those who have been fully inoculated as passengers are abandoning their plans due to uncertainty in restrictions.

The Heathrow Airport in London suffered 600,000 flight cancellation in December last year as cases related to the Omicron variant surged in the United Kingdom. Airport authorities are demanding an end of coronavirus testing for those who have been fully inoculated as passengers are abandoning their plans due to uncertainty in restrictions. "Covid-19 continues to pose significant challenges for the travel industry," Heathrow said in a statement. With the Omicron coronavirus variant stalling recovery prospects, the number of passengers passing through London's main airport dropped more than 12 percent last year. Also see | Brits angrily contrast own lives during Covid lockdown when PM Johnson partied The airport's chief executive John Holland-Kaye said, "There are currently travel restrictions, such as testing, on all Heathrow routes." "The aviation industry will only fully recover when these are all lifted and there is no risk that they will be reimposed at short notice, a situation which is likely to be years away." Britain still requires all inbound travellers to take either a PCR or a rapid lateral flow test a maximum of 48 hours before departure, a measure Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said would be reviewed in the second week of January. Also read | Rishi Sunak would be a better prime minister for UK than Boris Johnson: Poll "Consumer confidence in travel has suffered a significant setback, which will outlast these restrictions," said Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of travel association ABTA. The airport welcomed 19.4 million passengers last year, less than one-quarter of the level in 2019 before the pandemic struck. Passenger numbers dropped 12.3 percent compared with 2020. The Omicron variant was first detected in November last year in southern Africa and Hong Kong and has so far has been reported in at least 89 countries. More than 150,000 people have died after catching coronavirus in the United Kingdom as per the British government. It reported that deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test had reached 150,057 since the start of the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Heathrow Airport saw 600,000 flight cancellations in December as Omicron stalls recovery hopes

Around 11,500 flights have been cancelled worldwide since Friday as Omicron variant forced several countries to impose travel restrictions amid concerns over virus spread.

According to Flight tracker FlightAware, about 3,000 flights have been cancelled on Monday and 1,725 cancelled on Tuesday.

A total of 471 flights have been cancelled either into or out of the United States, the website data shows.

US airlines said the cancellations have been due to crew members testing positive for the coronavirus, reported BBC.

According to flight tracker data, the majority of the flights cancelled on Monday are those by Chinese companies. This includes 420 flights cancelled by China Eastern, and over 190 cancellations by Air China.

The hardest-hit US airlines on the other hand are United and JetBlue.

United said it cancelled 115 flights Monday, out of more than 4,000 scheduled, due to crews with Covid, reported the Associated Press.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-fold-increase-observed-in-hospitalisation-of-new-yorks-children-amid-omicron-spread-440255">Four-fold increase observed in hospitalisation of New York's children, amid Omicron spread</a>

The latest cancellations come at a time when&nbsp;more than 90 countries, largely the West, are reporting record Covid cases spurred by the Omicron variant.

Cases in the United States are already on track to reach record highs in January, fuelled by large pockets of unvaccinated residents as well as lack of access to quick and easy testing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/symptoms-of-omicron-same-like-common-cold-uk-experts-reveal-439772">Symptoms of Omicron same like common cold, UK experts reveal</a>

President Joe Biden on Monday said&nbsp; that some US hospitals could be "overrun" but that the country is generally well prepared to meet the latest surge and Americans need not "panic."

In Europe, France and UK have been reporting more than 1,00,000 cases, with hospitalisations almost doubling over the past month.

In Belgium, the government imposed new measures starting Sunday that ordered cultural venues like movie theatres and concert halls to close.

In Netherlands, the Dutch government imposed a partial lockdown and shut down all non-essential establishments, restaurants and schools.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 11,500 flights have been cancelled worldwide since Friday as Omicron variant forced several countries to impose travel restrictions amid concerns over virus spread.

Around 11,500 flights have been cancelled worldwide since Friday as Omicron variant forced several countries to impose travel restrictions amid concerns over virus spread. According to Flight tracker FlightAware, about 3,000 flights have been cancelled on Monday and 1,725 cancelled on Tuesday. A total of 471 flights have been cancelled either into or out of the United States, the website data shows. US airlines said the cancellations have been due to crew members testing positive for the coronavirus, reported BBC. According to flight tracker data, the majority of the flights cancelled on Monday are those by Chinese companies. This includes 420 flights cancelled by China Eastern, and over 190 cancellations by Air China. The hardest-hit US airlines on the other hand are United and JetBlue. United said it cancelled 115 flights Monday, out of more than 4,000 scheduled, due to crews with Covid, reported the Associated Press. Also read | Four-fold increase observed in hospitalisation of New York's children, amid Omicron spread The latest cancellations come at a time when more than 90 countries, largely the West, are reporting record Covid cases spurred by the Omicron variant. Cases in the United States are already on track to reach record highs in January, fuelled by large pockets of unvaccinated residents as well as lack of access to quick and easy testing. Also read | Symptoms of Omicron same like common cold, UK experts reveal President Joe Biden on Monday said that some US hospitals could be "overrun" but that the country is generally well prepared to meet the latest surge and Americans need not "panic." In Europe, France and UK have been reporting more than 1,00,000 cases, with hospitalisations almost doubling over the past month. In Belgium, the government imposed new measures starting Sunday that ordered cultural venues like movie theatres and concert halls to close. In Netherlands, the Dutch government imposed a partial lockdown and shut down all non-essential establishments, restaurants and schools. (With inputs from agencies)

11,500 flights grounded worldwide since Friday as Omicron fuels another wave of infections

The concerns over the Omicron Coronavirus variant and fresh travel restrictions have led to a spark in hotel booking cancellations globally. It has been said by online hotel search firm Trivago who said that this is threatening to upend the fragile recovery in tourism.

Coronavirus' fresh travel restrictions have led to a spark in hotel booking cancellations

In view of the protests against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-citizenship-amendment-bill-267747">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a> in Assam, several airlines in the country have announced that flights to Guwahati and Dibrugarh have been cancelled on Thursday and Friday and passengers travelling to these two cities will be offered a fee waiver on cancellation or rescheduling fee.

IndiGo announced that all its flights to and from Dibrugarh in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-one-can-take-away-your-rights-unique-identity-prime-minister-assures-assam-on-citizenship-amendment-bill-267780">Assam</a> are cancelled for Thursday due to unrest in the state.

"Due to the prevailing situation in Assam, flights to/from Dibrugarh are cancelled for today. Flyers can choose an alternate flight or get a refund," IndiGo said.

SpiceJet also said it is offering refund and waiver of cancellation or change fees for all flights to and from Guwahati and Dibrugarh till Friday.

Other airlines like Vistara and GoAir also announced the cancellation of flights to these two cities and waiving of cancellation or rescheduling fee.

"Due to the ongoing unrest in Assam, we are waiving rescheduling/cancellation fee to the customers travelling to and from Guwahati and Dibrugarh till Dec 13, 2019. Fare difference if any, will be applicable. Thank you," Vistara tweeted.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TravelUpdate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TravelUpdate</a> Due to the ongoing unrest in Assam, we are waiving rescheduling/cancellation fee to the customers travelling to and from Guwahati and Dibrugarh till Dec 13, 2019. Fare difference if any, will be applicable. Thank you.
— Vistara (@airvistara) <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara/status/1204777122499190784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"Due to the ongoing unrest situation in #Assam, we're offering fee waiver on cancellation/rescheduling (fare difference, if any, will be applicable) to our customers flying to/from #GAU till 13th Dec'19. Reach out to us on FB, Twitter or call us at 18602100999," GoAir said in a tweet.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoAlert</a>: Due to the ongoing unrest situation in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Assam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Assam</a>, we're offering fee waiver on cancellation/rescheduling (fare difference, if any,will be applicable) to our customers flying to/from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GAU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GAU</a> till 13th Dec'19. Reach out to us on FB, Twitter or call us at 18602100999.
— GoAir (@goairlinesindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia/status/1204831879796445184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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An official at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport said that all flights between Kolkata to Dibrugarh sector have been cancelled due to the current situation in Assam.

In Assam, Guwahati and Dibrugarh districts have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders in the wake of protests after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

The administration had suspended mobile Internet services for 24 hours from 7 pm on Wednesday in ten districts of the state&nbsp;Lakhimpur, Tinsukia, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Kamrup (metro) and Kamrup.

Amid the unrest in Assam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of the state that "no one can take away their rights, unique identity and beautiful culture".

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 sailed through the Parliament after Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week.

The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

In view of the protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Assam, several airlines in the country have announced that flights to Guwahati and Dibrugarh have been cancelled on Thursday and Friday and passengers travelling to these two cities will be offered a fee waiver on cancellation or rescheduling fee.

In view of the protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Assam, several airlines in the country have announced that flights to Guwahati and Dibrugarh have been cancelled on Thursday and Friday and passengers travelling to these two cities will be offered a fee waiver on cancellation or rescheduling fee. IndiGo announced that all its flights to and from Dibrugarh in Assam are cancelled for Thursday due to unrest in the state. "Due to the prevailing situation in Assam, flights to/from Dibrugarh are cancelled for today. Flyers can choose an alternate flight or get a refund," IndiGo said. SpiceJet also said it is offering refund and waiver of cancellation or change fees for all flights to and from Guwahati and Dibrugarh till Friday. Other airlines like Vistara and GoAir also announced the cancellation of flights to these two cities and waiving of cancellation or rescheduling fee. "Due to the ongoing unrest in Assam, we are waiving rescheduling/cancellation fee to the customers travelling to and from Guwahati and Dibrugarh till Dec 13, 2019. Fare difference if any, will be applicable. Thank you," Vistara tweeted. #TravelUpdate Due to the ongoing unrest in Assam, we are waiving rescheduling/cancellation fee to the customers travelling to and from Guwahati and Dibrugarh till Dec 13, 2019. Fare difference if any, will be applicable. Thank you. — Vistara (@airvistara) December 11, 2019 × "Due to the ongoing unrest situation in #Assam, we're offering fee waiver on cancellation/rescheduling (fare difference, if any, will be applicable) to our customers flying to/from #GAU till 13th Dec'19. Reach out to us on FB, Twitter or call us at 18602100999," GoAir said in a tweet. #GoAlert: Due to the ongoing unrest situation in #Assam, we're offering fee waiver on cancellation/rescheduling (fare difference, if any,will be applicable) to our customers flying to/from #GAU till 13th Dec'19. Reach out to us on FB, Twitter or call us at 18602100999. — GoAir (@goairlinesindia) December 11, 2019 × An official at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport said that all flights between Kolkata to Dibrugarh sector have been cancelled due to the current situation in Assam. In Assam, Guwahati and Dibrugarh districts have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders in the wake of protests after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The administration had suspended mobile Internet services for 24 hours from 7 pm on Wednesday in ten districts of the state Lakhimpur, Tinsukia, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Kamrup (metro) and Kamrup. Amid the unrest in Assam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of the state that "no one can take away their rights, unique identity and beautiful culture". The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 sailed through the Parliament after Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Flights to and from Dibrugarh, Guwahati cancelled due to Citizenship (Amendment) Bill protests

Cars, planes stranded as Bomb Cyclone hits US Thanksgiving travel

A volcano erupted on the Indonesian holiday island of Bali, causing some overnight flight cancellations to and from Australia as an ash cloud rose into the sky, officials said on Saturday.

Mount Agung volcano spewed out lava and showers of rocks over a distance of about 3 km (2 miles), with ash falling over dozens of villages, officials said. There were no reports of casualties.

Flights, run by Qantas Airways, Jetstar and Virgin Airlines, were operating normally on Saturday.

Authorities had 50,000 masks available as a precaution though the alert level on the volcano remained unchanged and there had been no evacuations.

Photographs of Agung overnight showed an ash column and glowing lava in the crater of the volcano, which rises majestically over eastern Bali at a height of just over 3,000 metres.

In late 2017, authorities raised the alert level on Agung after a spike in activity, triggering evacuations and travel chaos at the time. The alert level has since been lowered but the rumbling Agung has erupted intermittently since then occasionally disrupting flights.

A major eruption in 1963 killed more than 1,000 people and razed several villages&nbsp;

Bali, famous for its surf, beaches and temples, attracts around 5 million visitors a year.

A volcano erupted on the Indonesian holiday island of Bali, causing some overnight flight cancellations to and from Australia as an ash cloud rose into the sky, officials said on Saturday.

A volcano erupted on the Indonesian holiday island of Bali, causing some overnight flight cancellations to and from Australia as an ash cloud rose into the sky, officials said on Saturday. Mount Agung volcano spewed out lava and showers of rocks over a distance of about 3 km (2 miles), with ash falling over dozens of villages, officials said. There were no reports of casualties. Flights, run by Qantas Airways, Jetstar and Virgin Airlines, were operating normally on Saturday. Authorities had 50,000 masks available as a precaution though the alert level on the volcano remained unchanged and there had been no evacuations. Photographs of Agung overnight showed an ash column and glowing lava in the crater of the volcano, which rises majestically over eastern Bali at a height of just over 3,000 metres. In late 2017, authorities raised the alert level on Agung after a spike in activity, triggering evacuations and travel chaos at the time. The alert level has since been lowered but the rumbling Agung has erupted intermittently since then occasionally disrupting flights. A major eruption in 1963 killed more than 1,000 people and razed several villages Bali, famous for its surf, beaches and temples, attracts around 5 million visitors a year.

Volcano erupts on Indonesia's Bali causing flight cancellations

Indonesia authorities ordered people living near the volcano to leave their homes after its eruption spewed steam and ash to as high as 5,500 metre (18,000 ft) on Friday (May 11)

Video shared with Reuters showed thick plumes of smoke rising from the peak of the volcano. The eruption caused ash and debris to spread across Yogyakarta.

A disaster mitigation agency told residents living within a 5 km (3 mile) radius of the mountain to move to shelters, agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said in a statement. The airport in Yogyakarta, the nearest big city to the volcano, shut because of the threat from the ash, the state-owned aviation agency AirNav said in a statement.

The disaster agency described Merapi's latest eruption as phreatic, which means magma heats up ground water and vapour is released under pressure.

A disaster mitigation agency told residents living within a 5 km (3 mile) radius of the mountain to move to shelters

Indonesia authorities ordered people living near the volcano to leave their homes after its eruption spewed steam and ash to as high as 5,500 metre (18,000 ft) on Friday (May 11) Video shared with Reuters showed thick plumes of smoke rising from the peak of the volcano. The eruption caused ash and debris to spread across Yogyakarta. A disaster mitigation agency told residents living within a 5 km (3 mile) radius of the mountain to move to shelters, agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said in a statement. The airport in Yogyakarta, the nearest big city to the volcano, shut because of the threat from the ash, the state-owned aviation agency AirNav said in a statement. The disaster agency described Merapi's latest eruption as phreatic, which means magma heats up ground water and vapour is released under pressure.

Volcano eruption in Indonesia's Java prompts flight cancellations, evacuation

Air travellers could be paid a compensation of up to Rs 20,000 for flight delays and cancellations and Rs 5000 for being denied boarding, a draft passenger charter has proposed.

The charter, framed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is expected to be placed in public domain soon following a final round of meeting with the stakeholders, officials said.

Civil Aviation Secretary R N Choubey had said last week that the easy-to-understand passenger charter would mention all entitlements of an air traveller as the existing regulations of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the aviation watchdog, with regard to compensation were not "passenger-friendly".

"Therefore, our ministry is working on an easy-to-understand passenger charter in which we will be capturing all the entitlements that passengers have with regard to the service they should expect from the amount paid," he had said.

The draft proposal includes full refund if the delay is over six hour.&nbsp

The compensation amount could be as high as Rs 20,000 if passengers miss connecting flights due to airline cancellations during the initial leg of the journey, the charter has proposed.

In case of denial of boarding, the compensation could be Rs 5000 as such instances of have seen a sharp rise in the recent past, the officials said, adding the existing rules on this count remain flexible.

The charter, framed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is expected to be placed in public domain soon following a final round of meeting with the stakeholders, officials said

Air travellers could be paid a compensation of up to Rs 20,000 for flight delays and cancellations and Rs 5000 for being denied boarding, a draft passenger charter has proposed. The charter, framed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is expected to be placed in public domain soon following a final round of meeting with the stakeholders, officials said. Civil Aviation Secretary R N Choubey had said last week that the easy-to-understand passenger charter would mention all entitlements of an air traveller as the existing regulations of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the aviation watchdog, with regard to compensation were not "passenger-friendly". "Therefore, our ministry is working on an easy-to-understand passenger charter in which we will be capturing all the entitlements that passengers have with regard to the service they should expect from the amount paid," he had said. The draft proposal includes full refund if the delay is over six hour. The compensation amount could be as high as Rs 20,000 if passengers miss connecting flights due to airline cancellations during the initial leg of the journey, the charter has proposed. In case of denial of boarding, the compensation could be Rs 5000 as such instances of have seen a sharp rise in the recent past, the officials said, adding the existing rules on this count remain flexible.

Passengers could be compensated up to Rs 20,000 for flight delays, cancellations: Draft rules

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