A powerful winter storm sweeping across the US East Coast has triggered widespread disruption to international air travel, <a href="https://jordangazette.com/teus-group-signs-maldives-resort-management-deal-with-radisson/”>with leading carriers including Emirates, Air India and Etihad Airways announcing cancellations, reschedules and diversions affecting thousands of passengers.
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Heavy snowfall and severe weather conditions forecast across New York, New Jersey and surrounding regions on February 22 and 23 have significantly impacted operations at major airports including John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport.
Airlines said safety remains their top priority as they work to assist affected travelers.
Emirates cancels and reschedules multiple New York flights
Dubai-based Emirates confirmed that several services to and from New York and Newark have been cancelled due to the anticipated severe impact of the snowstorm.
The airline announced the following cancellations:
- EK203 / February 22 – Dubai to New York (JFK)
- EK204 / February 23 – New York (JFK) to Dubai
- EK209 / February 22 – Athens to Newark (EWR)
- EK210 / February 23 – Newark (EWR) to Athens
In addition, several flights have been rescheduled:
- EK202 / February 23 will depart from New York (JFK) at 18:00 hrs local time on February 22 and arrive in Dubai at 15:25 hrs local time on February 23.
- EK201 / February 23 will depart from Dubai at 14:30 hrs local time on February 23 and arrive in New York (JFK) at 19:55 hrs local time on February 23.
- EK206 / February 23 will depart from New York (JFK) at 20:00 hrs local time on February 22 and arrive in Milan at 09:35 hrs local time on February 23.
- EK205 / February 23 will depart from Milan at 18:40 hrs local time on February 23 and arrive in New York (JFK) at 21:55 hrs local time on February 23.
“Customers impacted by the cancellations are advised to contact their travel agency for rebooking. Those who booked directly with Emirates should contact us,” the airline said in its latest travel advisory.
The carrier added that passengers affected by rescheduled flights and connecting in Dubai “will be rebooked until their final destination” and urged travelers to check flight status regularly.
Customers are also requested to ensure their contact details are up to date by visiting Manage Your Booking to receive the latest updates.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused. We continue to monitor the situation closely,” the airline said.
Air India grounds all New York and Newark services
Air India also announced sweeping cancellations, confirming via its Instagram story that all flights to and from New York and Newark scheduled for February 23 have been cancelled due to the approaching winter storm.
The airline said heavy snowfall predicted across the region is “likely to significantly disrupt flight operations.”
“The decision has been taken with the safety, well-being and convenience of passengers and crew as the top priority,” Air India said. The carrier added that its dedicated support teams will assist travelers booked on the cancelled services.
Passengers seeking assistance can contact Air India’s 24×7 call centre at +91 1169329333 or +91 1169329999.
The airline thanked customers for their patience and understanding during the disruption.
Etihad Flight diverted to Munich amid European weather
Meanwhile, weather-related disruption extended beyond the USA. Etihad Airways confirmed that flight EY153 from Zayed International Airport (AUH) to Vienna International Airport (VIE) on February 20, 2026 was diverted to Munich International Airport due to adverse weather conditions in Vienna.
As a result, the return service EY154 from Vienna to Abu Dhabi scheduled for the same day has been delayed.
“We apologise for the inconvenience caused by this event, and our teams are doing their best to assist you with your travel arrangements,” Etihad said.
The airline urged passengers booked on the affected flights to ensure their contact details are updated via etihad.com/contactme to receive SMS or email updates with the latest flight information.
“The safety and comfort of our guests and crew is our number one priority. We apologise for the inconvenience to your travel plans,” the airline added.
Airlines urge passengers to monitor updates
With the winter storm expected to intensify across parts of the US Northeast, airlines continue to closely monitor conditions and adjust operations accordingly.
Travelers flying to or through New York and Newark in the coming days are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport, update contact information with their airline, and remain in contact with travel agents where applicable.
While the snowstorm has created significant operational challenges, airlines say their focus remains firmly on passenger safety and minimising disruption wherever possible.