ROMULUS (WWJ) – It was a spring break nightmare for many travelers passing through Detroit Metro Airport on Monday, as airlines across the country have been experiencing massive amounts of flight delays and cancellations.
There were thousands of canceled or delayed flights over the weekend all over the U.S., which left many air travelers rescheduling their flights.
Officials with multiple airlines have blamed weather and technical issues for the delays.
It was poor, poor timing for many travelers, as most schools in Metro Detroit and across the state are either just starting or just wrapping up spring break.
Many frustrated passengers were lined up at DTW on Monday, including one woman who told WWJ's Ryan Marshall her plans to celebrate her daughter's birthday in Florida for spring break were soured by the situation.
"We have not been to the counter yet, so we'll see what they have to say. We're close enough and my husband could come get us and we could go home, or the other option might be to drive if they'll refund my money," she said.
Passengers at Detroit Metro Airport's Warren C. Evans North Terminal are dealing with long lines at the Spirit counter as they wait to get rebooked or refunded for their flights.
— Ryan H. Marshall (@RyanHMarshall) April 4, 2022
Most of the delays are due to bad weather in other parts of the country. @WWJ950 @AfternoonsWWJ pic.twitter.com/dohG1AQOmX
She noted it's "a long drive and it's an expensive drive."
"But it's my daughter's birthday today, and this was her birthday/spring break trip," she said.
Monday's chain reaction of delays and cancelations came on what was otherwise a big day for DTW. Officials renamed the North Terminal in honor of Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans.
Evans said it was humbling to see his name on the signage.
"Certainly, you smile anytime there's some acknowledgement, but I don't think anywhere near the reality," Evans said.
