Winter storm delays flight delays in Calgary, Edmonton & Saskatoon

A powerful winter storm that hit Calgary International Airport (YYC) Wednesday afternoon (Dec. 17) has led to more than 100 flight cancellations so far, according to FlightAware.

Edmonton (YEG) and Saskatoon (YXE) airports are experiencing similar issues as well. 

The interaction of two powerful weather systems is expected to generate one of the most expansive and impactful winter storms western Canada has seen in years, CTV News reports.

Blizzard conditions brought near-zero visibility and hazardous road conditions Wednesday, triggering multiple vehicle collisions and road closures across the city, while flight operations at Calgary International Airport were temporarily suspended, reports say.

“Maintaining a safe operation is Calgary Airports’ top priority. In a winter storm we clear the runways, taxiways and aprons of snow and ice to ensure aircraft can land, take off, and taxi safely,” said airport spokesperson Mackenzie Murphy in an emailed statement published by the Calgary Herald.

“Periodically, all paved surfaces need to be shut down for snowplows, sweepers and sanders to clear the snow.”

By 3:30 p.m., one runway had reopened for both arrivals and departures, while crews continued working to clear the remaining runways at YYC, Murphy said.

Travellers are advised to confirm their flight status with their airline before heading to the airport and to allow extra time for their journey.

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