Air India Grounds New York Flights. Flights suspended amid severe winter storm

Air India has canceled all flights to and from New York and Newark scheduled for January 25 and 26, 2026, as a powerful winter storm threatens the U.S. East Coast. Weather forecasts warn of heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and strong winds, creating hazardous operating conditions at major airports across the New York metropolitan area.

A storm of exceptional scale

The winter system spans more than 2,000 miles, stretching from Texas to New England and affecting at least 15 states. Meteorologists expect dangerously low temperatures, widespread ice accumulation, and intense snowfall, significantly disrupting transportation networks. Power infrastructure is also at risk, with ice buildup likely to cause large-scale outages across multiple regions.

Emergency declarations across states

Several states, including New York, New Jersey, Missouri, and Kentucky, have declared states of emergency to mobilize resources and protect public safety. Texas has activated disaster response measures across 134 counties, while federal authorities have placed FEMA on standby to assist with crisis management as conditions deteriorate.

Impact on U.S. air travel

The storm has already triggered thousands of flight cancellations at major airports, with New York and Newark among the hardest hit. Airlines across the country are adjusting schedules to minimize risk, and Air India’s decision reflects a broader industry-wide emphasis on safety over operational continuity during extreme weather events.

What passengers should expect

Affected travelers are advised to monitor official airline communications and contact Air India directly for rebooking and support. Given the unpredictable nature of the storm, further delays and cancellations remain possible as weather conditions evolve, particularly at East Coast hubs.

Conclusion

Air India’s suspension of New York and Newark flights on January 25 and 26 highlights the far-reaching impact of one of the most severe winter storms of the season. With widespread flight disruptions, emergency measures, and infrastructure risks, the event underscores the vulnerability of air travel to extreme weather across the United States.

As reported by International Investment experts, airlines’ proactive cancellations during severe storms reflect a structural shift in aviation risk management, as climate volatility increasingly shapes operational decisions and network resilience strategies.