This archive report was first published on 30 August 2019.
On August 30, 2019, Hurricane Dorian was forecasted to make landfall in Florida as a major Category 4 storm, prompting residents to evacuate the state. Several airlines responded by taking steps to help those fleeing the storm.
Delta Air Lines, for instance, capped fares out of numerous cities in Florida and southern Georgia, with top ranges of $299-$599 in the main economy cabin and $499-$799 in first class. The airline also added 930 seats worth of capacity to scheduled flights between Florida and Atlanta, Georgia, where evacuees could connect onwards.
Additionally, Delta waived all pet-in-cabin and baggage fees for passengers flying from specific airports in Florida from August 30-September 4. These airports included Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Melbourne, Miami, Orlando, and West Palm Beach.
Other major US carriers, such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, also had last-minute flights available from Florida cities for under $600 round-trip, although some flights from these carriers cost upwards of $1,500.
As the storm approaches, it is essential for residents to check with their airlines for the latest information on flights and fares.