14 Airlines Most Likely to Cancel Your Flight (And How to Avoid Them)

These days, booking a flight feels more like a gamble than a guarantee. Between staffing shortages, mechanical delays, and unpredictable weather, cancellations are no longer the exception—they’re part of the equation. And while any airline can leave you stranded, some are far more likely to do so than others. In this updated guide to the 14 Airlines Most Likely to Cancel Your Flight (And How to Avoid Them), we break down which carriers are consistently unreliable—and why. But this isn’t just a list of the worst offenders. It’s a survival manual for smarter travel. We’ll share practical tips to help you dodge disruptions, protect your plans, and make it to your destination with your sanity intact. If you’ve ever sprinted through a terminal only to find your flight canceled, this one's for you. Let’s get you airborne—without the chaos.

1. American Airlines – Weather and Workforce Woes

American Airlines frequently faces cancellations due to its extensive network and hub locations in weather-prone areas like Dallas and Chicago. Seasonal storms and sudden weather changes are common culprits. Additionally, workforce management issues, including pilot and crew shortages, have exacerbated the problem. Despite efforts to improve scheduling and staffing, these challenges persist. Travelers flying with American Airlines should keep an eye on weather forecasts and consider flexible travel plans to mitigate potential disruptions.