Spring break is right around the corner, and like many Michigan residents, you’re probably excited to leave the chilly weather behind and head for warmer destinations. After months of dealing with the cold, snow, and endless shoveling, nothing sounds better than a sunny vacation. But before you get too excited about the beach or resort, let’s talk about one thing that could throw a wrench in your well-laid travel plans – delays at the airport.
Unfortunately, many people who travel during spring break find themselves stuck at airports across the country, with their flights delayed for a variety of reasons. If you’re heading to one of the worst airports for delays, be prepared for a longer wait than you anticipated.
Why Are Flights Delayed?
Before you start pulling your hair out at the airport, it’s important to know that flight delays are usually for safety reasons. Airlines may be dealing with a range of issues that can affect your travel time. Understanding these causes can help reduce the frustration of waiting at the gate.
- Not Enough Staff: Like many industries, airlines are struggling with staffing shortages. While you’re unlikely to be asked to fly the plane or hand out drinks, fewer workers means fewer hands to help things run smoothly.
- Too Many Travelers: Everyone wants to go on vacation at the same time. With people flying from Lansing, Detroit, Grand Rapids, and other parts of Michigan, the airports get crowded. Long security lines and a surge in passengers can lead to delays.
- Weather: If there’s one thing Michigan residents know, it’s that the weather is unpredictable. Snowstorms, rain, or other weather events can quickly disrupt airport operations, causing flight delays.
- Airport Construction: Just when you thought you had the airport layout memorized, renovations pop up. While construction is essential, it can cause a lot of confusion and delays as you try to navigate through temporary terminals or gates.
The Worst Airports for Delays in 2025
According to travel insurance experts at SquareMouth.com, some airports in the U.S. are particularly notorious for frequent delays. If you’re planning to fly out of Michigan to warmer destinations this spring break, make sure your airport isn’t on the list of the 10 worst airports for delays.
These airports are known for long waits, and flying into them might just cause you to miss out on valuable vacation time. If your destination happens to be one of these airports, consider booking an earlier flight to avoid delays. Morning flights tend to be less delayed, so plan accordingly.
1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Ranked as the 10th worst airport for delays in 2025, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport sees frequent disruptions due to thunderstorms and high traffic volumes. With a flight delay frequency of 28%, it’s wise to be prepared for longer wait times.
2. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Boston Logan ranks 9th in 2025 with a flight delay frequency of 29%. Winter weather and congestion from nearby significant airports are the main culprits for delays here. If you’re headed to Boston, make sure you have enough time to get through any delays.
3. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International is no stranger to delays. With a flight delay frequency of 30%, this airport is ranked 8th on the list for 2025. Fog and runway renovations are the main reasons for disruptions. If you’re flying in or out of SFO, be prepared for some waiting.
4. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Ranked 7th for flight delays, Chicago O’Hare sees delays of around 31%. Weather, particularly snowstorms, combined with heavy traffic, contributes to the frequent delays at this busy airport. If you’re flying through Chicago, you might want to plan for additional time.
5. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Coming in 6th for the worst delays, Newark Liberty International Airport has a delay frequency of 32%. The airport is often impacted by weather, air traffic congestion, and even construction, making it prone to delays. It’s one of the busiest airports in the country, so delays are common here.
6. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
With a delay frequency of 33%, Dallas/Fort Worth is ranked 5th on the list. The high volume of flights and weather events like thunderstorms can cause significant delays, making it one of the least predictable airports when it comes to departure times.
7. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
New York’s JFK Airport takes the 4th spot with a delay frequency of 34%. The weather, combined with a large number of incoming and outgoing flights, often leads to significant delays. Travelers should always account for possible disruptions when passing through JFK.
8. Denver International Airport (DEN)
At 35% delay frequency, Denver International ranks 3rd in the U.S. for delays. The airport is often affected by winter weather, including snowstorms, and heavy traffic. If you’re flying to or from Denver, always have a backup plan in case your flight gets delayed.
9. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX ranks 2nd on the list with a 36% delay frequency. It’s one of the busiest airports in the country, and with so many flights, the chances of delays are higher. Weather conditions, air traffic, and other factors contribute to the delays here, so always expect the unexpected.
10. Miami International Airport (MIA)
The worst airport for delays in 2025 is Miami International, with a delay frequency of 38%. This airport often experiences delays due to thunderstorms and heavy traffic, especially during peak travel seasons like spring break. If you’re flying to sunny Florida, be prepared for long waits at MIA.
Tips to Minimize Travel Delays
While there’s little you can do to control weather or airport construction, there are steps you can take to minimize your chances of facing delays:
- Book Morning Flights: Morning flights are less likely to be delayed compared to afternoon or evening flights.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself extra time at the airport to deal with long lines or unexpected delays.
- Check Flight Status: Always check your flight status before heading to the airport to stay updated on any changes.
- Have a Backup Plan: If your flight is delayed or canceled, have a plan for alternate flights or transportation to your destination.
Conclusion
While spring break is a time for relaxation, it can also come with travel challenges. If you’re flying from Michigan, especially to sunny destinations, make sure you’re aware of the worst airports for delays and plan accordingly. With some preparation and a flexible attitude, you can still enjoy your vacation, even if it starts with a delay.
Disclaimer – Our team has carefully fact-checked this article to make sure it’s accurate and free from any misinformation. We’re dedicated to keeping our content honest and reliable for our readers.
