U.S. airlines canceled more than 2,700 flights as winter storm approaches

More than 2,700 flights were canceled in the U.S. as a winter storm with strong winds approached the east coast of the country. More than 1,500 flights were delayed.

American Airlines has canceled more than 600 flights. Nearly 95 percent of the flights departed from Charlotte-Douglas International Airport in North Carolina, which is the airline’s hub. The airline allowed passengers affected by the weather to rebook flights without a fee.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a severe winter storm will hit the eastern U.S. on Sunday-Monday. The heaviest snowfall is expected along the Appalachian Range and in the lower Great Lakes. The heaviest icy conditions are expected in North and South Carolina, which could significantly affect travel in that region, the NWS reported.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp on Sunday advised state residents to avoid travel in storm-affected areas without a serious need. The governors of Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina have declared a state of emergency in response to the storm.