San Francisco International Airport is experiencing significant travel disruptions, with approximately 293 flights delayed and 14 canceled across domestic and international routes. United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Delta Air Lines are among the carriers most affected.
The disruptions stem from a combination of factors. In late March 2026, the FAA implemented a permanent reduction in arrival capacity at SFO, limiting the number of aircraft that can land per hour. That restriction has since collided with an ongoing runway resurfacing project, seasonal travel demand, and recurring coastal weather conditions. Low cloud ceilings produced by the Bay Area marine layer have triggered FAA ground delay programs, holding flights at their origin airports and forcing arriving aircraft into extended holding patterns. Delayed inbound aircraft then miss departure slots, compounding delays across the full day’s schedule.
As a primary hub for United Airlines’ transcontinental and transpacific operations, SFO is particularly vulnerable to cascade effects. Morning delays ripple through the rest of the day’s rotations, leaving crews and aircraft out of position for subsequent flights. Routes affected include services to New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and London. Long-haul international departures to Tokyo and London have experienced notable hold times, while the heavily traveled San Francisco-Los Angeles shuttle corridor has also seen elevated delays.
Airlines operating at SFO have advised passengers to monitor flight status through airline apps and the airport’s official tracking tools. United, Alaska, and Delta typically waive change fees when delays exceed certain thresholds, though real-time air traffic control changes may not immediately be reflected in those systems.
Passengers are advised to arrive early, keep travel documents accessible, and check airline apps frequently for gate and departure updates.
