You’ve probably heard the news by now. Central Virginia is buckling up for what could be a snowstorm of mammoth proportions in the Friday – Saturday time frame. And while snow isn’t uncommon in this area, especially in the middle of January, snowfall totals that top one foot from a single storm are a bit unusual. This storm has the potential to do just that, while simultaneously creating travel conditions that are less than ideal (to say the least). So what does this mean for operations at CHO Airport? 
CHO Airport has a dedicated and hard-working snow removal team that does its best to keep the runway clear, in addition to all walkways, stairways, and parking lots on the airport property. Heavy-duty plows, snow blowers, and even good old-fashioned shovels are out working around the clock to aid in the removal of any wintry precipitation. But as the flakes continue to pile up and the winds begin to whip, what happens to flights that are scheduled to land and take off at CHO Airport?
The best advice is to remain in contact with your airline. The airlines ultimately make the decision of whether or not to cancel flights, so communication with your respective airline is critical to keeping you in the know. The last thing anybody wants is to be stuck at the airport for an extended period of time, so staying in contact with your airline can help keep you apprised of the latest flight information. All three of the airlines providing service for CHO Airport have issued travel alerts in advance of the storm to allow for flights to be rescheduled. Also keep in mind that this storm could have far-reaching impacts up and down the east coast, so be sure to follow the weather conditions in your connecting city. The weather in those connecting cities can have a ripple effect of delays and cancellations at other airports around the country.
Here’s a list of contact information for the airlines that provide service to CHO Airport:
Delta Air Lines:
Twitter: @DeltaAssist
Website: www.delta.com/talktous
Phone: 1-800-221-1212
Delta Air Lines Travel Alert
United Airlines:
Twitter: @united
Website: www.united.com/feedback
Phone: 1-800-864-8331
United Airlines Travel Alert
American Airlines:
Twitter: @AmericanAir
Website: www.aa.com
Phone: 1-800-433-7300
American Airlines Travel Alert
For weather updates in Charlottesville and central Virginia:
National Weather Service Forecast
www.newsplex.com/weather
www.nbc29.com/weather
As with any weather situation, the worst only lasts but so long and operations generally begin returning to normal once the flakes stop falling and the sunshine returns. For us, that is expected to happen sometime late Saturday, or into Sunday. To all those traveling, stay connected, stay informed, and stay safe. With these tips, you will be able to weather the storm and although it may be inconvenient at times, you will be best equipped to handle whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
