Home » Airlines News of Canada » Hundreds of Travelers Stuck in Canada as Air Canada, WestJet, Porter, Jazz and More Airlines Cancel 87 New Flights and Delay Over 300, Disrupting Across Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, Ottawa and Others
Published on
March 14, 2026
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A powerful late‑winter storm is battering Canada and leaving hundreds of travelers isolated as Air Canada, WestJet, Porter, Jazz and more airlines struggle to keep flights moving. Already, crews have been forced to cancel 87 new flights and delay hundreds as heavy snow and gusty winds push into Ontario and Quebec. Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, Ottawa, and other major cities are feeling the pressure of this system, which has brought rapidly worsening conditions and reduced visibility right as travel demand peaks. Environment Canada has issued active snowfall warnings across southern Ontario, where up to 15 cm of snow and icy surfaces are expected today, slowing highways and airport ground operations — especially around Toronto Pearson and Montréal‑Trudeau, the busiest hubs. As a result, airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, Porter and Jazz are bracing for further disruptions, while passengers cope with cascading delays and cancellations across Canada’s key travel corridors.
Impact on Major Canadian Airports
The winter storm has disrupted operations at several of Canada’s busiest airports, including Toronto Pearson International (YYZ), Montreal-Trudeau (YUL), and Vancouver International (YVR). These airports are critical hubs for both domestic and international flights, and the ongoing weather conditions are causing severe delays and cancellations.
Toronto Pearson (YYZ) is the hardest hit, with 40 cancellations and 186 delays. The storm’s heavy snow and poor visibility have resulted in a backlog of flights, especially affecting afternoon and evening departures. Montreal-Trudeau (YUL) has reported 10 cancellations and 56 delays, while Vancouver International (YVR) is facing 8 cancellations and 36 delays. Other airports such as Calgary International (YYC) and Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International (YOW) are also impacted, with delays and cancellations at smaller levels.
Analysis of Airlines Affected
Several Canadian airlines, including Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines, have been significantly impacted by this winter storm.
Air Canada (ACA): 22 cancellations and 267 delays have been reported. As one of Canada’s largest carriers, Air Canada’s flights to and from major international and domestic destinations have been delayed or cancelled.Jazz (ACA), a regional airline, experienced 38 cancellations and 79 delays, significantly affecting smaller routes and connecting flights within Canada.WestJet reported 8 cancellations and 98 delays, with some regional and international routes impacted. Similarly, Porter Airlines saw 8 cancellations and 88 delays, impacting flights from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.Other Airlines: Regional carriers like Air Canada Rouge and WestJet Encore also faced disruptions, with 5 cancellations and 54 delays (Air Canada Rouge) and 7 cancellations and 55 delays (WestJet Encore).Cities Most Affected
The storm’s effects have been widespread, especially in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. These cities, which serve as major transit points for both domestic and international flights, have been at the center of the disruptions. In addition to these metropolitan areas, regions such as Pickering, Oshawa, and Newmarket are also experiencing higher-than-usual snowfall and deteriorating road conditions, which have led to cancellations and delays in surrounding airports.
With significant snowfall expected, these areas could continue to experience further disruptions throughout the day.
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What Affected Passengers Can Do Now
For passengers affected by flight cancellations and delays, here are some steps they can take:
Check Flight Status: Passengers should check their airline’s website or mobile app for real-time updates on their flight status. Many airlines allow passengers to rebook their flights online.Rebooking and Compensation: Airlines often offer rebooking options, but passengers should contact customer service for assistance if their flights are cancelled. Some airlines may also provide meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, or compensation for long delays.Stay Informed: Sign up for flight alerts from your airline to receive immediate updates on any changes to your flight status. This will help you stay ahead of cancellations and avoid unnecessary waiting times.Be Prepared for Delays: Given the snowstorm and expected further disruptions, passengers should be prepared for extended waiting times. It’s a good idea to carry essentials like snacks, water, and chargers while waiting at the airport.Conclusion: Navigating the Storm’s Impact on Travel
Canada is currently facing one of the most disruptive winter storms of the season, which has caused 87 cancellations and 394 delays across multiple airlines and airports. Passengers should be aware of the challenges ahead and take the necessary steps to manage their travel plans, from checking flight statuses to exploring rebooking options. With no immediate end to the storm in sight, those who can avoid travel should do so, while those who must travel should prepare for significant disruptions.
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Source: FlightAware
