Travel Alerts Issued as Tropical Storm Helene Approaches Florida
As Tropical Storm Helene approaches the northern Gulf Coast of Florida, major airlines have proactively issued travel alerts and advisories to accommodate travelers affected by the impending storm. With the storm expected to intensify and potentially reach hurricane strength, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis has updated a state of emergency to encompass 61 of the state’s 67 counties. This article provides an overview of the travel advisories from various airlines, ensuring travelers are informed and prepared.
Understanding the Situation
Tropical Storm Helene is currently moving across the Caribbean Sea and is projected to strengthen significantly by early Wednesday. The National Hurricane Center has warned that Helene could develop into a major hurricane as it nears the northern U.S. Gulf Coast on Thursday. In light of these developments, airlines are taking necessary precautions to assist passengers and mitigate disruptions.
Airline Travel Alerts
American Airlines
American Airlines has issued a travel alert affecting 23 airports, including 16 in Florida. Notably, both Tampa International Airport and Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport are included in this advisory. Passengers who purchased tickets before September 23 for travel to or from the affected airports between September 24-27 can change their travel plans without incurring any fees through September 27.
Breeze Airways
Breeze Airways has also announced a travel alert impacting four Florida airports, including Tampa and Sarasota. Travelers scheduled to fly to or from these airports between September 25-27 can switch to any available flight within 14 days of their original booking without additional charges.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines has issued a travel alert that affects 10 Florida airports, including Tampa, Sarasota/Bradenton, and Orlando. Passengers with flights scheduled through these airports between September 25-27 can rebook their flights without a fee until October 4.
Frontier Airlines
In anticipation of Helene’s landfall, Frontier Airlines has issued an alert for six Florida airports, including Tampa, Sarasota, and Pensacola. Travelers who purchased tickets before September 24 for flights scheduled between September 26-27 can rebook their flights free of charge.
JetBlue Airlines
JetBlue Airlines is taking a proactive approach by waiving change fees and fare differences for customers traveling to and from six Florida airports, including Tampa and Sarasota, between September 26-27. Customers can rebook their flights through October 2 without incurring additional costs.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines has issued a travel advisory that includes eight Florida airports. Passengers scheduled to travel to or from the affected airports between September 24-27 may rebook their flights at no charge within two weeks of their original travel date.
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines has also issued an advisory affecting four Florida airports, including Tampa. Travelers with flights scheduled to or from the affected airports between September 25-27 can rebook their flights free of charge through October 2.
United Airlines
United Airlines has issued a travel alert impacting eight Florida airports, including Sarasota/Bradenton and Tampa. Passengers who purchased tickets before September 23 for flights traveling on September 24-27 can rebook without a change fee through October 4.
Conclusion
As Tropical Storm Helene approaches Florida, airlines are taking significant steps to ensure the safety and convenience of their passengers. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the storm’s progress and to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates and travel advisories. While Allegiant Air had not issued any travel alerts as of Wednesday morning, it is advisable for all travelers to remain vigilant and prepared for potential changes to their travel plans.