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Understanding How Weather Causes Flight Delays on Long-Haul Flights

June 22, 2026 · The Clime Team
Understanding How Weather Causes Flight Delays on Long-Haul Flights

Weather is the leading cause of flight delays, accounting for over 74% of significant delays in the National Airspace System. (faa.gov) Long-haul flights, due to their extended duration and complex routing, are particularly susceptible to weather-related disruptions.

How Does Weather Affect Long-Haul Flights?

Long-haul flights traverse diverse weather systems, making them vulnerable to various meteorological challenges:

  • Thunderstorms: These can cause severe turbulence, lightning, and hail, leading to reroutes or cancellations. (afar.com)

  • High Winds: Strong winds, especially during takeoff and landing, can necessitate delays or diversions.

  • Heavy Snow and Ice: These conditions can create ground hazards and in-flight icing risks, often leading to cancellations. (unanswered.io)

  • Low Visibility: Fog and heavy rain can reduce visibility, affecting both takeoff and landing operations.

Impact on Airports and Air Traffic Control

Certain airports are more prone to weather-related delays due to their geographic locations and operational capacities:

  • Newark Liberty International Airport: In 2022, Newark experienced nearly 30,000 significant delays exceeding 15 minutes, primarily due to weather conditions. (faa.gov)

  • LaGuardia Airport: Often delayed due to typical weather conditions, LaGuardia had an on-time performance of 71.75% in 2025. (kiplinger.com)

Air Traffic Control (ATC) plays a crucial role in managing these disruptions by rerouting flights, implementing ground stops, and coordinating with airlines to ensure safety.

How Can Planes Live Help?

Staying informed about weather conditions is essential for minimizing the impact of delays. Planes Live offers real-time flight tracking and weather updates, allowing travelers to monitor their flights and anticipate potential disruptions. By providing timely information, Planes Live helps passengers make informed decisions, such as adjusting travel plans or preparing for delays.

Conclusion

Weather significantly influences the punctuality of long-haul flights. Understanding the types of weather that cause delays and utilizing tools like Planes Live can empower travelers to navigate these challenges more effectively.

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