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Airport Travelers Still Waiting To Head East

GRAPEVINE (CBSDFW.COM) - The powerful storm known as Sandy has resulted in an estimated 14,000 flights to the New England area being canceled across the nation since Sunday, and that has left travelers simply waiting to hear when they can start heading east again. About 200 flights in and out of DFW International Airport were canceled on Monday. It was only about 20 percent of all flights, but it has created a huge headache for those trying to depart.

It could be quite some time before flight schedules return to normal, because some of the major airports in the northeast have been completely shut down. LaGuardia Airport in New York was flooded with water as Sandy made landfall. DFW International Airport is advising passengers with plans to travel to the northeast to check with their airlines or travel agents if they have not already heard from their carriers.

But for those who are stuck in North Texas, the concern is getting back home to family members and friends along the east coast. "So far, everything has been okay except the rains and the winds," said stranded traveler Richard Brancato.

"Our family has been texting us, calling us, sending us pictures," added Krista Brancato.

DFW Airport is prepared to assist travelers who may be stranded because of changing flight schedules. However, there are typically not many people stranded during storms like this, because there is ample lead time to prepare for the travel effects. Still, the airport is leaving restaurants and stores open later, and giving out hotel vouchers to help with the cancellations.

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