FORT LAUDERDALE-HOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, FLA. (WSVN) - Flights are finally getting off the ground Friday morning, after strong storms moved across the Sunshine State delaying dozens of flights
Heavy rain prompted dozens of cancellations and delays at airports across South Florida.
“Had a little bit of an adventure trying to beat the weather,” traveler Crissy said.
The most wonderful time of the year can also be the most stressful time of the year.
“Hopefully smooth sailing, but we’re kind of just playing it by ear [and] hoping for the best,” said Crissy.
“It’s expensive, and it’s a lot of people,” traveler Brittany Thompson added.
Some flights have finally gotten off the ground after the stormy night, but some travelers are still stranded.
At Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, American Airlines cancelled outbound flights because inbound planes were diverted to other airports during the storm. However, those passengers are expected to leave on re-booked flights Friday morning.
J.J. Sehlke and his family are trying to head out on a ski vacation but had their night flight to Charlotte cancelled.
“We were trying to take a break for Christmas,” he said. “I feel OK. I kind of expected it. It was an ugly front coming through.”
Meanwhile, John Surma was left grounded after his flight home was also cancelled.
“Supposed to be going to D.C., home for Christmas,” said Surma.
Once passengers make it to their final destination, they believe it will all be worth it.
“I’m going to Jamaica,” one traveler said.
“I’m going to my country, Dominican Republic,” another traveler said.
At FLL alone, officials expect more than 1.7 million travelers to pass through the terminals over the next two weeks.
“We’re just going for Christmas,” a traveler said, “going to the beaches, you know, bathing suits.”
Most travelers are planning to create holiday memories – hopefully on schedule.
“It’s the most wonderful season,” a traveler said, “a lot of fun and a lot of family getting together.”
Some of the delays that are already in place range from one to four hours and can possibly continue into the weekend.
Travelers are advised to check with their airline before heading to the airport.
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