High winds force ground delay at Denver International Airport
By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on February 18, 2026
A ground delay was enacted at Denver International Airport on Tuesday due to powerful winds. Inbound flights were held with an average delay of about 2 hours. By 8:40 a.m., 490 flights were delayed and 34 were canceled. The FAA advised that delays would continue through the day. High Wind and Red Flag Warnings were in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with gusts up to 65 mph and very dry conditions across eastern Colorado.
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A wind-related ground delay was implemented at Denver International Airport on Tuesday February 17th, holding inbound flights and significantly slowing operations. The morning started with an average delay for inbound traffic of about 2 hours. Conditions deteriorated through the morning: by 8:40 a.m., there were 490 delayed flights and 34 cancellations.
The disruption was directly tied to very strong and gusty winds impacting airport operations. Weather alerts across Colorado highlighted the broader conditions contributing to the aviation impacts. A High Wind Warning and a Red Flag Warning were in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. across the eastern half of the state, with sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph and gusts reaching 55 to 65 mph alongside critically low humidity. In the mountains, high winds combined with snowfall created hazardous travel, with a Winter Storm Warning in the Park Range and forecasts of 14 to 24 inches of snow and gusts up to 65 mph.
Passengers traveling to or from Denver International Airport should expect ongoing delays and possible cancellations as operations adjust to the wind conditions and FAA traffic management initiatives. Travelers are advised to monitor their flight status closely, allow extra time at the airport, and follow airline guidance on rebooking options if their flight is canceled or significantly delayed.
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
Flights affected:
490
Status:
Current disruption
Airports affected:
Denver International Airport
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
February 18, 2026
