By midday, flight-tracking service FlightAware.com reported that nearly 1,500 flights within the U.S. had been scrapped, with the largest numbers at Fort Lauderdale and Miami. American Airlines, which has a major hub in Miami, was the hardest-hit carrier, followed by Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways.
Linda Hughes, air service coordinator for Dayton International Airport, said five airlines fly out of the area — Allegiant Air, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines and American Airlines.
On Wednesday, no delays or cancellations were reported out of Dayton airport due to Matthew. But local passengers are starting to feel the impacts now.
Allegiant has canceled a flight tomorrow from Dayton to Orlando. Southwest has canceled more than five flights today and tomorrow with a final destination of Orlando. United Airlines, Delta and American Airlines have all canceled several flights to the airport as well.
FlightAware says airlines have already canceled nearly 1,300 flights scheduled for Friday.
Airlines often cancel flights before storms hit to prevent passengers from being stranded at airports and to keep their planes in position to recover after the bad weather passes.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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