Multiple airports in Florida began shutting down and airlines were forced to cancel hundreds of flights in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Milton. President Joe Biden and other government officials urged airlines and companies not to engage in price gouging as people evacuated the storm’s path. By mid-afternoon on Tuesday, over 700 U.S. flights had been canceled, with a significant number of cancellations at Tampa International Airport.
As the hurricane approached, travelers scrambled to secure flights out of Florida, only to be met with exorbitant prices and last-minute cancellations. Many passengers complained of airlines raising fares dramatically, with some instances of prices increasing from $200 to $750 within seconds. Screenshots of flight prices posted on social media showed stark differences in fares offered by different airlines, with some charging as high as $2,351 for a one-way ticket.
Airlines defended their actions, stating that they had imposed fare caps and were working to accommodate customers impacted by the hurricane. Spokespersons from United, Delta, and American Airlines affirmed that they had implemented measures to control fares and provide additional seats for passengers needing to evacuate. The industry trade group Airlines for America emphasized the priority of passenger and employee safety during the hurricane.
Amidst the chaos, concerns were raised about the thin line between price gouging and regular airline pricing practices. President Biden and the U.S. Transportation Department vowed to monitor airline behavior closely to ensure that excessive fare increases were not taking place. Travel expert William McGee highlighted the frequency of airlines raising prices during natural disasters and urged affected consumers to file complaints and share their experiences on social media.
With Hurricane Milton expected to impact Florida’s central Gulf coast, flight cancellations were projected to exceed 1,600, predominantly in the state. Several airports, including St. Pete-Clearwater International and Orlando International, announced closures in anticipation of the storm. Travelers, already exhausted and frustrated, faced challenges in securing alternative transportation options and expressed dismay over the high prices, cancellations, and poor customer service they encountered while trying to evacuate.
As the situation unfolded, individuals stranded in Florida voiced their struggles and uncertainties about returning home. From missed flights to unhelpful airline staff and limited transportation alternatives, travelers like John Fedor shared their frustrations. Despite efforts to find alternative means of reaching their destinations, many faced obstacles and uncertainties about their return plans amid the turbulent conditions caused by Hurricane Milton.
