Airlines Ease Change Fees as Newark Liberty Flights Gradually Return Following Major Northeast Blizzard
After a strong blizzard forced airlines to cancel more than 1,000 flights before the storm, Newark Liberty International Airport flights are slowly returning to normal. As situations improve, major Newark carriers are eliminating rebooking costs for affected guests, but many deadlines are looming.
The Federal Aviation Administration reported that Newark flights were mostly on time by Tuesday and that cancellations had dropped dramatically from earlier in the week. Newark had 21 canceled and 27 delayed flights by Tuesday night. That improved from earlier reports of eight cancellations and 118 delays Tuesday morning, demonstrating airlines’ operational adjustments during storm-related difficulties.
The winter storm hampered traffic across the region, forcing airlines to temporarily reduce timetables. With runways cleared and safety inspections complete, airlines are restarting regular service while prioritizing passenger and crew safety.
United Airlines, the largest Newark-based carrier, waived change fees and pricing discrepancies for storm-affected customers. Tickets purchased before February 19, 2026, for travel to or from 17 Northeastern airports are waived. United flights leaving February 20–27, 2026, can be rebooked if the new ticket is in the same cabin and between the same locations.
United’s spokeswoman said Northeast operations are beginning, but travel may be difficult. The airline stressed that safety is its top priority and that it notifies customers of schedule changes as soon as possible to allow them to use weather-related flexibility.
Spirit Airlines—Newark’s second-largest airline—has likewise implemented a temporary waiver. The airline allows passengers to change tickets at eight Northeastern airports, including Newark, without fees or cost discrepancies. The airline’s storm-related accommodation policy allows adjustments to travel scheduled between February 22 and 25, 2026, through March 4, 2026.
American Airlines, Newark’s third-largest carrier, offered similar flexibility for visitors to 15 Northeastern airports. LaGuardia, Newark, and John F. Kennedy International Airport are examples. American said passengers who bought tickets by February 21, 2026, for travel between February 22 and February 26, can rebook without change costs if they travel by March 7. The airline added more than 4,000 flights and seats to clear the backlog of disturbed passengers.
Airlines warn travelers to book changes before deadlines, including some that expire Thursday. To prevent additional charges after waiver periods, passengers should examine their airline regulations and confirm new itineraries immediately.
The quick Newark recovery shows how airlines and airport authorities work together during significant weather events. As traffic loads return to normal, federal aviation officials monitor operations to assure safety. Airlines warn that personnel and aircraft repositioning may cause delays even if most flights are on time.
Flying is back, flexibility is back, and booking modifications should be made swiftly while charge waivers are in place for Northeast travelers. Newark airlines are quickly restoring service and helping customers after the hurricane.
Sources
Federal Aviation Administration
United Airlines
Spirit Airlines
American Airlines
