Updated Dec 22, 2022 - Economy

These airlines have travel waivers ahead of major winter storm

A United Airlines flight lifts off at O'Hare International Airport on December 13, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois..

A United Airlines flight lifts off at O'Hare International Airport on Dec. 13, 2022. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images

A number of major airlines are waiving the usual fees and fare differences for travelers looking to rebook their trips this holiday season ahead of dangerous winter weather.

The big picture: A significant winter storm is expected to barrel through the United States this week, bringing frigid temperatures and blizzard conditions to much of the country, most likely delaying travel for millions.

Why it matters: The waivers and lack of fees will allow travelers with flexible plans to rebook ahead of the storm. Travelers can also attempt to leave a little earlier without cost concerns.

2022 holiday travel airline fee waivers

What's happening: United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and other airlines are offering to waive the fees associated with changing your flight.

Keep an eye on the fine print, as some airlines are only allowing fee change waivers to and from specific airports — though eligibility could grow as the storm gets closer.

  • Alaska Airlines has waivers for flights to and from Seattle, Portland, seven East Coast cities and a dozen Midwest cities.
  • American Airlines has waivers for travelers moving through and out of about 30 airports in the Midwest and another 30 in the Northeast.
  • Delta will waive fees for rebooking several flights to and from the Pacific Northwest, Midwest and Northeast.
  • Southwest Airlines has a waiver for dozens of airports across the country.
  • Spirit Airlines has a waiver for travel to six Midwest airports and 11 Northeast airports as of Tuesday.
  • United is offering waivers to people traveling through airports across many of its regions, including the East Coast, Midwest, Central and Northwest U.S., and Texas.

More from Axios:

Arctic blast and intense winter holiday storm to slam U.S.

Major winter storm threatens to upend holiday travel

Arctic blast to bring bitterly cold temperatures to Colorado

Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional developments.

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