American Airlines Waives Flight Change Fees as Wildfire Smoke Disrupts Northeast Airports

American Airlines has announced that it will allow passengers to rebook their flights without incurring any fees on Thursday, as airports in the Northeast continue to face operational challenges due to the pervasive wildfire smoke originating from Canada. Passengers traveling through select airports in Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., will now be eligible for waived change fees if they purchased their tickets before June 7 and wish to travel to the same destination city, among other specified conditions.

The airline acknowledges the impact of severe weather or uncontrollable events on flight schedules and assures passengers that they can modify their travel plans without additional charges. In a statement on their website, American Airlines said, “We understand you may have questions about your upcoming travel. We’re working around the clock to care for you on your travel journey.”

This decision by American Airlines coincides with flight delays implemented by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) at five major U.S. airports on Thursday. Among the airports affected by the FAA’s actions are New York City’s LaGuardia International Airport, Newark International Airport in New Jersey, and Philadelphia International Airport in Pennsylvania.

The massive plumes of smoke from wildfires in Quebec and Nova Scotia have reached as far as North Carolina and Northern Europe, leading to concerns over air quality and flight disruptions. The smoky haze is expected to persist throughout Thursday and potentially into the weekend. According to U.S. National Weather Service meteorologist Bryan Ramsey, a low-pressure system over Maine and Nova Scotia, driving the smoke, is likely to linger for the next few days. Ramsey further added that until there is a change in wind direction or the fires are extinguished, unhealthy conditions are expected to continue.

Officials across the eastern U.S. have issued warnings advising residents to stay indoors and minimize outdoor activities due to the hazardous air quality caused by the smoke. In some areas, “Code Red” air quality alerts have been extended for a third consecutive day. In response, Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington, D.C., has directed schools to cancel outdoor recess, sports, and field trips on Thursday. Additionally, authorities in suburban Philadelphia have established an emergency shelter to provide refuge for individuals living outdoors who need respite from the smoky conditions.

Passengers affected by the ongoing wildfire smoke are encouraged to contact American Airlines or visit the airline’s website for further information on rebooking options and any applicable conditions. The airline remains committed to assisting travelers during this period of disruption and uncertainty caused by the wildfire smoke and its impact on air travel in the Northeast.