Airlines Are Trying to Solve Issues Created by the Omicron

The omicron variant of Covid-19 had a huge impact on airlines. Unfortunately, they called off more than 2,000 flights since Christmas Eve as the rapid spread of Covid’s new variant drove up sick calls from flight crews.

As a result, the staffing shortages disrupted travel for thousands of passengers, many of whom skipped holiday travel last year. Companies expect the year-end holiday period to include some of the busiest days since the pandemic began. Airlines including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, and JetBlue Airways cited the spread of the omicron variant among employees as a reason for cancellations. 

Airlines and passengers

On Monday, Delta called off 54 flights compared with 189 flights on Sunday. United canceled 85 Flights, down from 118 a day earlier. Other airlines are also struggling to cope with the omicron variant. Alaska Airlines called off 76 flights, while regional carrier SkyWest dropped 160 flights.

They encouraged customers to check their carrier’s website as well as apps for flight information. According to airlines, they try to inform clients of cancellations as early as possible so they don’t make unnecessary trips to the airport. 

Companies ramped up their schedules ahead of the holiday to meet the demand. The omicron variant changed its plans. Last week, executives asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to change quarantine guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals who test positive to five days from the current 10. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention eased its guidelines for healthcare workers with breakthrough Covid infections. 

Companies offered flight crews extra pay to work peak holiday periods and attendance goals. For instance, Spirit Airlines called off more than 93 flights on Saturday and Sunday. The company offered flight attendants double pay to pick up trips this weekend. 

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