Flight delays average 2 hours at MSP airport

By TIM HARLOW, Star Tribune

Last update: October 15, 2009 - 4:10 PM

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Fall break is getting of to slow start for those flying out of state. The Minneapolis.-St. Paul International Airport is reporting that flights are departing an average of 2 hours late on what is the beginning of the busiest travel weekend of the year, said Pat Hogan, an airport spokesman.

A low cloud ceiling and a runway construction project are contributing to the delays. The airport has only one runway accepting arriving flights and one being used for departing flights, Hogan said.

"It's not a good day for travel," he said. "It's a frustrating day."

About 80,000 to 100,000 people are expected to pass through the Lindbergh and Humphrey terminals each of the next four days, Hogan said.

Delays are likely to continue until the weather improves.

"The sun will make all the difference in the world," Hogan said.

Passengers are advised to check with their airline regarding delays and cancellations before coming to the airport.

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