CHARLOTTE — A ground stop at Charlotte Douglas International Airport stranded thousands of passengers, causing widespread flight delays and leaving travelers searching for alternate plans.
While the ground stop eventually lifted, airport disruptions created lingering impacts for passengers.
Most flights were delayed rather than canceled, prompting many passengers to head to the airport in hopes of departing.
The ground stop produced long lines at rental car companies and a scramble to secure nearby hotel rooms.
Shemean Neilly was among the stranded travelers after attempting to fly home to Orlando following a work meeting. “I was at the gate, and they said all the flights were pretty much grounded,” Neilly said.
She had hoped to return in time for her daughter’s birthday, adding, “I was here for a meeting for work and was heading back home. My daughter’s birthday is tomorrow. But hey, it is what it is.”
Some passengers checked status updates before heading to the terminal. Joe Tarantelli monitored flight statuses online.
“I was able to get on the FAA website, and it didn’t indicate there was total cancellation, so I felt pretty comfortable,” Tarantelli said.
Other travelers were forced to adjust their plans or seek overnight accommodations.
Olivia Gunn and her family, traveling from Birmingham to Miami, faced the prospect of staying overnight. “I don’t want to sleep in the airport; I wouldn’t do it,” Gunn said.
Michael Brownholtz, who lives outside Philadelphia, decided to switch to ground transportation to reach home.
“I live outside of Philadelphia, and there’s nothing we can do about a ground stop. So we have to get home, so we’re taking Amtrak tomorrow morning,” Brownholtz said.
Airport officials advise all passengers to check directly with their airline for updated flight status before traveling to the airport.
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