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Airlines Begin Canceling Some Indianapolis Flights

Last updated on Monday, October 29, 2012

(INDIANAPOLIS) - Airlines began canceling some Indianapolis flights to and from the East Coast on Sunday in anticipation of Hurricane Sandy.

Chance Walser, of RTV6 reports, more than 5,000 flights have been canceled across the U.S. for Sunday and Monday, with some of the passengers affected at Indianapolis International Airport.

Passengers have no choice but to make adjustments.

Sam and Jackson Starnes took their first-ever trip to New York City, but spent Sunday back at home in Indiana because of the storm.

"We we looked on the news, it looked pretty big, so we got pretty nervous about that," said Jackson Starnes.

"I was a little dissapointed, because I still wanted to do a couple more things before we left," said Sam Starnes.

Their grandmother, Mary Anthony, made the decision to leave.

"We wouldn't have been able to go out anywhere or do anything, and it was dangerous," said traveler Mary Anthony.

The first flight cancelations to and from the East Coast from Indianapolis happened Sunday, with more expected overnight and on Monday.

"Mainly U.S. Air and United (are calling off flights). I talked to Southwest. They haven't canceled any, but the plan is to start canceling very soon," said Mike Medvescek, senior director of airport operations.

The airport has been preparing for the storm for two days, working with the National Weather Service and airlines to secure Indianapolis as a secondary landing site, if needed.

"We have plenty of ramp space here to accommodate any aircraft that wants to come in here," Medvescek said.

Many airlines offered to waive flight change fees starting Sunday for cities in the storm's path. Rather than change plans now, some passengers went ahead with their trips, hoping to slip past what could be a devastating storm.

Cots and bedding are available for customers who get stranded, and food service hours could be extended if any flights to the East Coast get stuck in Indianapolis.

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