The Dubai-based carrier confirmed that several services serving New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) were either cancelled or rescheduled due to operational constraints caused by the storm system. The weather event, which has affected large parts of the Northeast, has significantly impacted airport operations, leading airlines to take precautionary measures to ensure passenger safety.
In an effort to minimise disruption, Emirates adjusted the timing of some departures on December 26 by operating flights earlier than originally planned. Flight EK202 from JFK to Dubai departed at 18:00 instead of the scheduled 23:00, arriving in Dubai on December 27 at 15:25. Similarly, flight EK206 from JFK to Milan, continuing onward to Dubai, departed at 19:30 rather than 22:20, with arrival in Milan recorded at 09:05 on December 27.
However, the airline confirmed cancellations affecting services via Newark Liberty International Airport. While flight EK209 operated from Dubai to Athens, the onward sector from Athens to Newark did not take place. In the same vein, flight EK210 from Newark to Athens was cancelled, although the Athens to Dubai leg continued as scheduled.
Passengers impacted by these changes have been advised to contact their travel agents or Emirates directly for rebooking options and travel assistance. The airline also urged customers travelling from New York to regularly check their flight status and ensure their contact details are updated through the “Manage Your Booking” portal to receive real-time alerts and notifications.
The disruption to Emirates’ services reflects a broader aviation challenge across the United States, as the winter storm has triggered widespread cancellations and delays. By Friday night, more than 1,600 flights had been cancelled nationwide, with over 7,400 delayed, according to data from FlightAware. Major airports in New York—JFK, Newark, and LaGuardia—were among the hardest hit, alongside airports in Boston, Chicago, and Toronto.
The US National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings predicting up to nine inches of snow across New York and southern Connecticut, with some areas expected to receive as much as ten inches—the heaviest snowfall New York City has seen in four years. Authorities also warned that plunging temperatures and Arctic winds could worsen road and runway conditions, extending hazardous travel into the weekend.
Several US carriers, including Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Republic Airways, cancelled hundreds of flights as operators prioritised safety and operational stability. State and city authorities across the Northeast have advised residents to avoid non-essential travel, while road and emergency crews remain on standby to manage snow clearance and respond to incidents.
As the storm continues to move through the region, airlines and airports are urging travellers to confirm flight schedules before heading to the airport, noting that delays and last-minute changes remain possible.