Local Flights so Far Unaffected By Nationwide Cancellation Crisis

By Dan Springer, La Crosse Tribune, Wis.

Apr. 11–Thursday’s cancellation of 900 American Airlines flights caused no delays in arrivals or departures at La Crosse Municipal Airport.

But that doesn’t mean it was all smiles for local air customers, Airport Manager Dan Wruck said. While flights between La Crosse and Chicago went on as usual — other than a late-afternoon cancellation because of bad weather in Chicago — Wruck said many connecting flights were affected by Thursday’s shutdown so planes could be inspected.

The 933 American flights cancelled Thursday came after a Wednesday that saw the world’s largest airline scratch 1,094 flights.

American Airlines offers four flights in and out of La Crosse daily, Wruck said.

“We’re encouraging people who have flight plans to contact the airline to make sure any connecting flights they may have are still going as scheduled,” Wruck said. “Obviously, only the airline knows what particular leg is down and what the contingency plan is.”

Customers who contacted Wruck’s office complained the airline’s phone system was overwhelmed, he said, and many of them spent considerable time on hold. Others turned to American’s Web site but said information there wasn’t always up to date.

“There really isn’t much anybody can do,” Wruck said. “I would advise people to take the time to drive out to the airport and visit with the people at the counter.”

Dan Springer can be reached at dspringer@lacrossetribune.com or (608) 791-8269.

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