LONDON – With thousands of flight cancellations and stranded passengers over the busy Christmas holiday period in the United States, Alaska Airlines canceled its 20% flight from Seattle proactively on the grounds of harsh winter conditions.

Alaska Airlines mentioned that the cancellations will allow for the additional time that will be needed to de-ice aircraft.

Seattle, the North-western airport on the Pacific Coast has been hit by the worst rare winter storm over Christmas, with accumulating over 3 inches of snow on the runway overnight.

Travel weekly quoted that, the cancellations by Alaska Airlines have been part of another difficult day for the U.S air travelers. Reports suggest that, as of 1 PM Eastern Time on Wednesday, airlines had canceled more than 850 flights.

Alaska has joined JetBlue, Allegiant, and Spirit in flight cancellations of almost 5% of their scheduled flight operations.

Additionally, United has canceled 7% of its flights.

Along with SkyWest, Alaska, United Express, Delta Connections, and American Eagle, each has canceled 8% of its flight schedules.

The weather conditions have added to another set of trouble for the airlines, as they are struggling to meet the increased demand with a limited set of staff.

The airlines are also facing staff calling sick and increased Covid infection rates amongst themselves.

Airlines and Airports are urging their passengers to check the flight status before making their way to the airport as more flights are expected to be affected as harsh weather conditions further intensify.