Intense wildfires forced flight cancellations and closed attractions in Los Angeles
Wildfires burning a devastating path across the greater Los Angeles area are also affecting travelers entering and exiting the area. Some flights to and from southern California were affected by the unstable conditions, although the majority of cancellations and delays involved Hollywood Burbank Airport. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) did not report much, if any, interference with travel due to the wildfires.
A tourist flying into the city from Denver posted a video on X showing an aerial view of the burning Palisades fire. His flight was supposed to land at Burbank Airport (BUR) but instead was diverted to LAX due to turbulence caused by strong winds that helped fan the blaze.
As of 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday, 19% of flights taking off from Burbank Airport (BUR) were canceled and 13% were delayed, according to data obtained on the website. Flight recognition. LA Ontario International Airport (ONT), about 40 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, is reporting about 10% of flight cancellations.
Some airlines have issued area-specific travel warnings designed to provide some flexibility for those whose travel plans are affected by the fires. Airlines such as Plain, JetBlue, Southwest And United Airlines is allowing people who booked flights to and from LA-area airports between January 8 and 10 to rebook before January 15.
American Airlines posted a travel waiver policy similar to the one it implemented after New Year’s terrorist attack in New Orleans.
As for many of the attractions in Los Angeles that make it one of the most popular destinations in the US, more and more locations are closing as the fire continues to spread. The Getty Villa, part of the iconic J. Paul Getty Museum, has so far escaped damage that has claimed more than a thousand homes and buildings. That location will be closed through at least next week, while the Getty Museum in Los Angeles will be closed until January 12.
World famous people Griffith Observatorynear the iconic Hollywood sign, was also closed. Some residents near the site in Griffith Park remain concerned the fire could spread to the area and force evacuations there. Warner Bros. And Supreme image both ended their famous studio tour today, citing “strong winds and explosive conditions”.
Universal Studios Hollywood, located in the San Fernando Valley, has also temporarily closed, as has the surrounding shopping and entertainment center Universal CityWalk.
Disneyland, located in Orange County about 45 minutes from Pacific Palisades, where the worst of the wildfires occurred, remains open, as does Knott’s Berry Farm. That can change depending on fire conditions, so if you plan to attend either attraction, be sure to check before going.
We will update this story when we have more information.
