• Winter storm causes severe flight disruptions across the U.S., with over 9,000 cancellations.
• States of emergency declared in New York and New Jersey due to hazardous travel conditions.
• Airports heavily impacted include JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, with significant snow accumulation.
• Travelers pushed to avoid risky journeys amid warnings of icy roads and reduced visibility.
• Major airlines waive change fees for passengers affected by weather disruptions.

The winter storm that swept across the United States over the Christmas holiday resulted in **over 9,000 flights** being cancelled or delayed, causing widespread havoc for travelers. The storm significantly impacted major airports in the New York metropolitan area, such as John F. Kennedy International, LaGuardia, and Newark Liberty, as holiday travelers rushed to return home. By mid-Saturday, the effects were still being felt, with **American Airlines, United Airlines, and JetBlue** announcing the waiving of change fees for affected passengers, according to Indiatimes, Los Angeles Times, Channel News Asia.

In response to the dangerous conditions, **states of emergency** were declared in both **New York and New Jersey**. Governor Kathy Hochul of New York and Acting Governor Tahesha Way of New Jersey urged residents to avoid travel as hazardous conditions persisted due to snowfall and ice. The storm had accumulated as much as **4.3 inches** of snow in New York City and up to **10 inches** in parts of the surrounding areas, leading to severe impacts on both air and ground transportation, according to Indiatimes and Los Angeles Times.

In the aftermath of the storm, travel advisories remained in effect, with officials warning of treacherous road conditions due to icy surfaces and reduced visibility. Reports indicated that not only airlines were affected, but ground transport also faced significant challenges, including restrictions on commercial vehicles on major interstate highways, according to Channel News Asia, Indiatimes, and Indiatimes.

Travelers caught in the chaos described a mixed experience, with some tourists enjoying the picturesque snowfall while facing extensive delays. In Times Square, workers were deployed to clear the snow, and visitors shared their unexpected delight at the festive winter landscape, despite the turmoil at airports. The story of this storm underscores how severe weather can turn the busiest travel season into an extraordinary challenge, as confirmed by reports from Los Angeles Times and Indiatimes.