Air traffic at the San Diego International Airport experienced temporary delays on March 3, 2023, due to a hazardous materials spill that disrupted operations. The incident prompted officials to implement safety measures, leading to increased wait times for travelers. By mid-afternoon, airport operations returned to normal, according to spokesperson Nicole Hall.
Delays reported by various news outlets reached as high as 50 minutes, based on data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, Hall noted that the actual delays were shorter than reported. As of approximately 15:00 hours, the FAA’s website indicated that gate hold and taxi delays were under 15 minutes. Additionally, arrival traffic faced airborne delays of a similar duration.
The hazmat spill occurred amid a period of increased travel demand, as many people were preparing for holiday journeys. Hall emphasized the importance of arriving early for flights during this busy season, stating, “We still encourage people to plan ahead, check your flight status, and arrive early.”
While San Diego’s airport faced challenges, broader weather conditions across the United States contributed to travel disruptions. Storms across various regions, including the Pacific Northwest, Midwest, and Northeast, resulted in significant weather-related delays. Forecasts indicated the possibility of snow in parts of the Northeast and rain in other areas from Friday through Sunday, according to reports from ABC News.
Travelers are advised to remain vigilant about their flight statuses and to anticipate potential delays caused by adverse weather conditions. As operations stabilize at San Diego International Airport, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure safe travel for all passengers.
