LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - Christmas turned out to be a tough day air travelers.
Clinton National reported more than a dozen departing and arrival cancellations Christmas Day, plus several other delays. As of Wednesday afternoon, Shane Carter, director of public affairs and governmental relations, said many travelers are still waiting on other flights.
Carter also said Airport Commission Employees began working late to remove snow from the main runway, and extra staff stayed overnight to make sure passengers were as comfortable as possible.
THV 11 News caught up with some passengers Tuesday night to learn more about their experience.
Victor Caballero and his girlfriend waited for their baggage Tuesday at Clinton National Airport. They planned to fly home to Los Angeles via Houston, but Mother Nature grounded their connecting flight.
"Right before it was supposed to depart it got cancelled, so we got stuck for the day, and we're not going to leave until six tomorrow [night]" Cabellero said.
Until then, they plan to stay overnight at a hotel and make the most of it.
"We understand it's the weather. You can't really fight it," Caballero said. "At least we get to see snow before we leave, we can't get that in Los Angeles," Caballero said.
"Our final destination is Vancouver British Columbia just above Seattle," Emily Mueller said.
Emily Mueller and her sister Bonnie tried to get back home too after spending some holiday time with family in Arkansas. And they actually arrived a day early for a Wednesday morning flight.
"We figured we'd come early just in case the weather got too bad, so we're planning on staying here tonight," Emily Mueller said.
They spent the night at the airport and seemed OK with it.
"We have our computers, Netflix, I have school work I need to do," Bonnie Mueller said.
"We're young, so we might as well. It's an adventure definitely on Christmas, a Christmas adventure," Emily Mueller said.
It's a Christmas adventure in Arkansas, making this Christmas at the airport or at the hotel one to remember.
Carter said the airport has diverted at least three inbound flights Tuesday evening: a United flight from Denver and a Delta flight from Atlanta have been diverted to Tulsa, and an American Airlines Flight from Chicago has been diverted to Springfield.
Carter also said that it's best to check with your carrier via the airport website at www.fly-lit.com or by phone and get an update on flights if you are flying out Wednesday morning.