On February 2, 2025, a regional airliner departing from LaGuardia Airport experienced a serious incident during a snowstorm, prompting multiple runway closures and emergency response activity. The event at LGA highlighted operational challenges when winter weather intersects with high traffic volume at one of the busiest airports serving New York City.
Below is a structured overview of the incident, followed by detailed sections on operations, safety measures, and public questions. The data focuses on real conditions, airport response, and policy implications.
| Date | Aircraft | Phase | Key Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 2, 2025 | Embraer E175, 78 seats | Takeoff roll | Runway 13 slippery, rejected takeoff, none injured |
| February 2, 2025 | Embraer E175 | Taxi and hold | Ground delay program activated, 30–45 min average delay |
| February 2, 2025 | Multiple flights | Departures | 8 departures cancelled, 2 diverted to nearby airports |
| February 2, 2025 | LaGuardia operations | Overall | Runway 13 closed 4 hours, ATCT issued ground stops during peak |
Operational Context at LaGuardia
LaGuardia Airport handles a high density of short-haul flights across the Northeast corridor, with tight runway spacing and limited parallel runways compared to larger hubs. On the day of the incident, low visibility and accumulating snow reduced braking action on runway 13, a primary departure route for regional jets during afternoon departures. Air traffic control implemented runway checks and coordinated with airport operations to manage surface conditions in real time.
Winter Weather Procedures and Runway Safety
Prevention and Monitoring
Before each winter storm, LaGuardia activates its Severe Weather Plan, coordinating with Port Authority leadership, the FAA, and airline operations centers. Automated sensors provide continuous runway friction measurements, while visual inspections by maintenance teams supplement technology when rates of snowfall exceed instrument confidence. These data feed into a matrix that dictates hold short points and departure restrictions.
Response During the Incident
When the E175 rejected its takeoff, air traffic control held the aircraft on the taxiway while crews cleared the departure end of runway 13. Contingency measures included rerouting outbound arrivals to runway 31 and instituting ground stops for nonessential departures until friction levels met minimums. No injuries were reported, and all queued aircraft were released once conditions improved and the runway was reopened.
Impact on Airlines and Passengers
Airlines at LaGuardia adjust schedules dynamically during winter events, using ground delay programs and revised block times to reduce queue lengths. Passengers experienced a mix of delayed departures and a small number of diversions to Newark Liberty and JFK, where runways remained fully operational. Customer service teams set up rebooking desks in the terminals, focusing on connecting passengers and minimizing missed connections.
Preparing for Future Incidents
- Review airline winter contingency plans before travel in cold months.
- Pack essentials in carry-on luggage in case of unexpected terminal delays.
- Sign up for flight alerts directly from your carrier and the Port Authority.
- Allow extra connection time when switching between terminals at LGA.
- Monitor NOTAMs and TFR maps if you are a general aviation pilot using nearby facilities.
FAQ
Reader questions
How common are winter-related disruptions at LaGuardia?
Winter disruptions occur several times each season at LaGuardia, mainly during nor’easters and snow squalls, with significant events averaging two to three per year that trigger runway closures or ground stops.
What happens if my flight is diverted from LaGuardia due to weather?
Carriers coordinate with the Port Authority and neighboring airports to divert to JFK or Newark, arranging ground transportation or rebooking on later flights, while customer service assists with accommodations and baggage handling as needed.
Can I receive compensation if my departure is delayed or cancelled at LaGuardia due to snow?
Under federal rules and airline policies, passengers are generally not entitled to cash compensation for weather-related delays or cancellations, though airlines may offer vouchers or rebooking priority on a case-by-case basis.
What should I do at LaGuardia if I’m stranded by a ground stop?
Remain with your airline for updates, use charging stations and covered walkways inside terminals, avoid leaving the secure area during extended holds, and check mobile alerts for gate or departure changes before leaving the vicinity.