Why are flights suddenly cancelled?
Flight cancellations can be caused by a variety of factors, such as bad weather, strikes, or technical issues with the aircraft. Southwest ranked near the bottom for canceled flights, mishandled baggage reports and denied boardings. The ranking comes after Southwest’s December meltdown where a winter storm and issues with the airline’s crew rescheduling system caused 16,700 flights flight cancelations in a 10-day stretch.Southwest Airlines (the third largest US major airline by domestic passengers) was entirely unaffected.Airlines around the world, including major carriers like American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, and United Airlines, faced the cancellation of thousands of flights.Antiquated computer infrastructure and software systems used for managing and crewing flights contributed heavily to the quantity of flight cancellations; Southwest Airlines was unable at points to locate crew members to adequately staff flights.
Why is Southwest canceling so many flights?
Antiquated computer infrastructure and software systems used for managing and crewing flights contributed heavily to the quantity of flight cancellations; Southwest Airlines was unable at points to locate crew members to adequately staff flights. The software they use to plan flights and manage their employees does look old, and apparently dates back to around 2007. Southwest avoided the crash because they just don’t use Crowdstrike.The Federal Aviation Administration says it has found no safety issues with Southwest Airlines following several monthslong investigations launched in July after multiple close-call incidents.But Southwest reported that its operations were completely unaffected. That’s because major portions of the airline’s computer systems are still using Windows 3. Microsoft’s computer operating software.Southwest didn’t just “fix” its problems; it overhauled the way it operates, said Justin Jones, the airline’s Executive Vice President of Operations.Seats aren’t assigned. Southwest doesn’t allow flyers to reserve seats in advance, and there are no assigned seats. Instead, Southwest has a unique boarding system.
How do I know if my Southwest flight will be cancelled?
You can check any travel advisories for your flight on the day of your departure. Or, you can track your flight status to know if your flight is delayed or canceled. We recommend downloading the Southwest Airlines app to see all your flights and their status easily. Option #1: Continue with your travel plans In most cases, if Southwest cancels your flight, you will be automatically rebooked on another Southwest flight to your destination.In most cases, if Southwest cancels your flight, you will be automatically rebooked on another Southwest flight to your destination. If Southwest texts or emails you with a new itinerary, your new reservation is confirmed, and you don’t need to do anything else.In most cases, if Southwest cancels your flight, you will be automatically rebooked on another Southwest flight to your destination. If Southwest texts or emails you with a new itinerary, your new reservation is confirmed, and you don’t need to do anything else.Assigned seats and boarding Southwest flights departing on or after January 27, 2026 will have assigned seats. Our new fares include new seat options to choose from: Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom. You’ll be able to select the seat and experience that works best for you before you board.