“Crazy morning” is an understatement for what travelers experienced trying to depart LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal C early July 24, 2015. The madness began at approximately 4:30 a.m. when an on-site contractor mistakenly cut feeder cables that were serving Delta’s Terminal C. The Port Authority contractor was at LaGuardia due to the continuous airside construction at the airport. When the cables were cut, Terminal C essentially had a black out, turning off everything from the lights, to the necessary jet bridges to get passengers onboard an aircraft. AirlineGeeks received word from Port Authority stating that at 8:30 a.m. power was being restored and that jet bridges were operating. Delta willingly worked with the Port Authority to get generators running and as of 9:30 a.m., according to the airline, Terminal C was running on backup power. Other airlines utilizing Terminal C at LGA were not affected at all. Following approximately 10:00 a.m. when Delta’s communication system was restored flights began departing.
Fortunately, there is some good news–there were no injuries. Delta also provided snacks and beverages to fliers that had already arrived at the airport finding a pitch black terminal. Although a snack can’t replace a destination, hopefully it will hold fliers over until they can depart New York City.
Delta told AirlineGeeks.com that they expect a quick recovery with unfortunate residual delays. That may seem impossible as Delta reported canceling 119 Delta mainline and Delta connection flights. The FAA originally reported 2+ hour delays for Delta flights which were expected to decrease. Currently, it seems that has occurred as according to the FAA general arrival and departure delays for LaGuardia Airport are fifteen minutes or less.
However, even with the quick recovery expectation AirlineGeeks, the Port Authority, and Delta urge you to check your flight status prior to leaving for the airport.
