
Canada wildfires are disrupting U.S. flights. What are the risks of flying?
Global News
Transport Canada says it is 'closely monitoring' the wildfire situation and its impact on air travel as smoke from forest fires has disrupted flights in the United States.
Transport Canada is “closely monitoring” the wildfire situation and its impact on air travel as smoke from the country’s blazing forest fires has already disrupted flights in the United States.
Smoke spreading from wildfires in Canada delayed hundreds of flights Thursday at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, New Jersey’s Newark Liberty International Airport and Philadelphia International Airport because of limited visibility.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said in an update on Twitter Thursday that it will likely need to take steps to manage the flow of air traffic into Washington, D.C., and Charlotte, N.C., as well.
And as the winds shift, federal aviation officials are warning smoky skies could be seen in the U.S. Midwest and as far as the southeast.
In Canada, so far, there have been no major reported impacts to commercial aviation operations due to the wildfires, but several Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) have been issued across the country, a spokesperson at Transport Canada told Global News Friday.
“In all circumstances, air operators and travellers should exercise caution around fires,” said Hicham Ayoun.
“We urge everyone to follow the directions from local law enforcement and do not attempt to drive, fly or navigate through a wildfire.”
Some Air Canada flights to New York were adjusted after the FAA delays, the airline told Global News.