Airlines waive change fees ahead of winter storm
A traveler near the departure board at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) on Monday, November 24, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey, United States.
Victor J. Blue | Bloomberg | Getty Images
Airlines are allowing passengers to change their trips ahead of a major winter storm that will test carriers during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The National Weather Service says a winter storm warning is in effect for New York City, New Jersey and Long Island starting this afternoon, with snowfall totals potentially reaching 9 inches, with most of it falling overnight.
American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue Airlines and other carriers have waived change fees for restrictive basic economy tickets and said they will not charge customers entering and exiting several airports in the region, including Philadelphia International Airport, New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
Airlines said customers should travel by the end of the year if they change their flights. With few seats available during the busy Christmas week, flying as early as possible is probably your best bet.
Airlines for America, an industry lobbying group, expects carriers to fly a record 52.6 million passengers between Dec. 19 and Jan. 5; This Friday and Sunday are among the busiest days.
