Strong winds prompt San Francisco ground delay; Bay Area flights disrupted
By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on 17 February 2026
Strong winds triggered an FAA ground delay program at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), capping arrivals at 28 per hour until 6 p.m. Airlines held some departures at origin to maintain spacing. San Francisco Airport saw over 174 delayed flights and two cancellations, with average delays around 55 minutes and the potential to exceed two hours.
Oakland recorded 11 delays and San Jose Mineta International Airport reported 19 delays. Travelers in the Bay Area were advised to arrive early and stay in close contact with their airlines for schedule updates.
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A weather-related traffic management program disrupted flights across the Bay Area when strong winds led the Federal Aviation Administration to implement a ground delay program at San Francisco International Airport. Under the program, arrivals into San Francisco were limited to no more than 28 aircraft per hour until 6 p.m., and airlines were instructed to hold some departing flights at their origins to maintain safe spacing.
San Francisco International Airport experienced the bulk of the impact, with more than 174 flights delayed and two cancellations reported. Average delays were approximately 55 minutes, and the FAA cautioned that some delays could extend beyond two hours. Nearby airports were also impacted, with Oakland recording 11 delayed flights, and San Jose Mineta International Airport reporting 19 delays.
The disruption was attributed to strong winds and was managed through the FAA’s ground delay program, which concluded at 6 p.m. Travelers in the region were advised to arrive early and maintain contact with their carriers to receive the latest updates on flight status and potential schedule changes.
Key facts
- Cause: Strong winds
- Measure: FAA ground delay program at San Francisco International Airport
- Period: Until 6 p.m.
- Capacity limit: Arrivals capped at 28 per hour at SFO
- Reported impact: Over 174 delays and two cancellations at SFO; 11 delays at Oakland; 19 delays at San Jose Mineta International Airport
- Typical delays: Around 55 minutes on average, with potential to exceed two hours
Passengers with upcoming travel through Bay Area airports should check directly with their airlines for rebooking options and updated departure and arrival times.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights:
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Delays and Cancellations
Cause:
Weather issue
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Status:
Past disruption
Airports affected:
San Francisco International Airport, Oakland, San Jose Mineta International Airport
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
17 February 2026
