Airports facing highest flight delays in US during 2024

Home
»
Stories
»
2025
»
July

GLOBAL INDUSTRY NEWS

Qatar Airways In Talks To Buy 20% Of Virgin Australia - Airline Ratings

Boeing Will Buy Spirit AeroSystems For $4.7 Billion In Stock & Airbus Enters $559 Million Agreement For Its Parts

Global Industry News

Airports facing highest flight delays in US during 2024

Policy

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport | Official Website

By Sky Industry News

Jul 24, 2025

According to the US Bureau of Transportation Studies, 21.9% of flights on US-based airlines in 2024 were delayed. A flight is considered delayed if it departs more than 15 minutes after its scheduled time. These delays and cancellations can significantly impact passenger experience and satisfaction.

The data from the US Bureau of Transportation Studies, published by AirAdvisor, reveals which US airports and airlines faced the most disruptions due to delays and cancellations. Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) topped the list with 37% of its flights delayed in 2024. The airport processed over 21 million passengers last year, contributing to its high delay rate. Southwest Airlines holds a significant market share at this airport.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) followed with a 33% delay rate. This Florida airport experiences heavy tourist traffic, especially during peak seasons like Spring Break and holidays, which strains its infrastructure. Renovations are underway to increase capacity to 100 million passengers.

Get the Newsletter

Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News

By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) reported a 32% delay rate, making it the third-worst affected airport in the country. Spirit Airlines has a significant presence here, holding a 27% market share.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) had a delay rate of 31%. Its large size complicates navigation for both aircraft and passengers, contributing to delays. American Airlines commands a major market share at this hub.

Denver International Airport (DEN), also with a 31% delay rate, often faces severe winter snowstorms that disrupt operations despite being well-equipped for such events.

The report highlights several factors causing increased disruptions: rising passenger numbers post-pandemic, staffing shortages across the aviation industry, and severe weather conditions exacerbated by climate change.

American Airlines at DFW and Southwest Airlines at MDW are among those most affected by these disruptions due to their significant presence at these airports.