Why are there so many flight delays and cancellations right now?

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Forecast: Experts say they expect flight disruptions will last well into summer.

On April 14 there were 7,579 delays within, into, or out of U.S. airports and 602 cancellations, according to tracking site FlightAware. Experts say they expect flight disruptions will last well into summer.

According to Conde Nast Traveler...it is due to a confusing array of "Operational Issues." Which include shortage of planes, pilots, service crew and of course weather.  So even if it is sunny in Detroit, a storm in Florida may prevent crew from getting to Detroit. With staffing so limited, there isn't additional crew to fill in at a moments notice.

What can you do to  minimize disruptions to your travel?

1. For time sensitive trips like weddings and cruises, consider adding 1-2 days to beginning of itinerary to buffer any delays.
2. If an airline offers multiple departures on your day of travel, try to book an earlier flight so that other options may be available if you flight is cancelled.
3. Don't make connection times too tight.  Then if your first flight is delayed, you will still have time to catch your connecting flight.  I advise 1 1/2 hour lay-overs on Domestic connections this summer and 3  hours for international connections. (I'd rather be reading a good book than standing in long lines at the airport trying to rebook a flight.)

Lastly, travel insurance is more important than ever!  Travel insurance will cover many costs, from meals to hotel nights  to buying an additional flight to catch up with your cruise ship if needed.