Over 4,500 flights canceled during the holiday season as airline staff shortages escalate

The Christmas holiday travel period has been marred by widespread disruptions, with over 4,500 flights canceled globally as a result of staffing shortages linked to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. On Christmas Eve, 2,175 flights were scrapped, with about a quarter of these cancellations occurring in the United States. Christmas Day saw an additional 1,779 flights canceled, followed by another 402 cancellations on Sunday.

The cancellations primarily affected five major airlines: China Eastern, which canceled 474 flights; Air China, which scrapped 188 journeys; United Airlines, which saw 177 flights canceled; Air India, which halted 160 flights; and Delta, which canceled 150 flights.

The widespread disruptions have caused significant inconvenience for passengers attempting to return home for the festive season, with many facing long delays and altered travel plans. Airlines have cited the Omicron variant as a key factor behind staff shortages, leaving them unable to maintain their regular flight schedules.