SEATAC, Wash. — Travelers continue to deal with flight delays and cancellations at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport as the region prepares for another round of winter weather.
On Wednesday, Alaska Airlines announced it is proactively reducing the number of flights out of Sea-Tac over the next few days by about 20% to allow for additional time to deice aircraft.
Alaska canceled 170 flights across its network Wednesday, with more cancellations and delays expected through the week.
"The weather in Seattle is impacting guests beyond the Pacific Northwest," a statement from the airline reads.
There were at least 211 delays and 185 cancellations at Sea-Tac Airport by 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, according to FlightAware, which tracks flight data. On Monday, there were a total of 591 delays and 279 cancellations, and at least 251 cancellations Tuesday, according to FlightAware.
Kate Hudson, airport communications manager at Sea-Tac Airport, said a combination of a surge in holiday travel, winter weather challenges and airline staffing issues are the main causes of the disruptions.
"This is a higher travel period for us in general," Hudson said, adding airport crews are working around the clock to ensure runways, taxiways and ramps are clear of snow and ice.
Airlines are responsible for deicing and maintaining their planes.
For those who don't have a confirmed seat on a plane, the Port of Seattle previously recommended not to go to the airport.
On Tuesday, Hudson said if travel isn't essential, people should consider rebooking. Also, stay up to date on your flight and make sure it hasn't been delayed or canceled.
Loretta Stover and Rafael Aguilar ran into that issue Tuesday, when the flight they were supposed to take to Los Angeles, California was canceled suddenly. They began their journey Monday from Wenatchee. They were near Sea-Tac Airport when they received the alert.
They couldn't find another flight that would get them to Los Angeles in time for the Rose Parade in Pasadena. So, they canceled their trip entirely and went back home.
An additional piece of advice: don't leave luggage behind, as it could be days before it is returned. Long lines and hundreds of unclaimed bags were seen at Sea-Tac Airport early Wednesday morning.
