Storm Fern grounds thousands of flights as Emirates and Etihad cancel US routes

Severe winter weather across the United States has triggered widespread air travel disruption, forcing Emirates and Etihad Airways to cancel multiple flights to and from major US cities as Storm Fern continues to batter large parts of the country.

The powerful snow and ice system is bringing heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and dangerously low temperatures across several states this weekend, grounding thousands of flights and creating knock-on delays across global aviation networks.

According to flight tracking data, more than 9,000 flights were cancelled across Saturday and Sunday, with over 5,800 cancellations recorded on Sunday alone, marking the single worst day for US flight disruptions in the past year.

Emirates suspends key US routes

Dubai-based Emirates confirmed that several long-haul services have been cancelled due to the anticipated impact of Storm Fern. The airline also stated that customers connecting through Dubai on cancelled flights will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin, in line with standard disruption protocols.

Emirates cancelled flights – January 25

• EK221 – Dubai to Dallas

• EK222 – Dallas to Dubai

• EK201 – Dubai to New York

• EK202 – New York to Dubai

• EK203 – Dubai to New York

• EK204 – New York to Dubai

• EK205 – Milan to New York

• EK206 – New York to Milan

• EK209 – Athens to Newark

• EK210 – Newark to Athens

• EK231 – Dubai to Washington

• EK232 – Washington to Dubai

• EK237 – Dubai to Boston

• EK238 – Boston to Dubai

Emirates cancelled flights – January 26

• EK203 – Dubai to New York

• EK204 – New York to Dubai

Passengers affected by the cancellations are advised to contact their travel agents or Emirates directly for rebooking options. The airline has also urged customers to ensure their contact details are up to date via the Manage Your Booking section on its official website.

Etihad Airways also impacted

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has also cancelled select services to the United States as the storm disrupts airport operations, crew availability, and ground handling across affected regions. While Etihad has not released a full route list, the airline is monitoring conditions closely and advising passengers to check flight status before travelling.

Storm Fern continues to disrupt US travel

Meteorologists warn that Storm Fern is expected to continue impacting air travel through the weekend, with airport closures, de-icing delays, and runway restrictions affecting major hubs including New York, Boston, Washington, Dallas, and Chicago.

Travelers flying between the Gulf and the US are advised to monitor airline updates closely, allow flexibility in travel plans, and avoid heading to airports unless flight status is confirmed.