I’ve had a couple of notes this morning and just saw another note on a list of airline geeks I hang out on — doesn’t look like it’s going to be a good day to fly. Especially out of Denver or out of Chicago.

The reason? Unusually high winds.

Denver had diversions beginning last night, and today, they are waiting for the winds to turn to a more northerly direction. Currently RW8-26 at Denver  is closed for repair, leaving only RW7-25 for arrivals (and possibly departures) according to a dispatcher we know. 

Which brings us to Chicago. One subscriber just sent me an IM, telling me his flight has been pushed back more than an hour — but the gate agent is somewhat vague on just when they are going to get out, and other flights are stacking up.

Apparently there is now a ground delay program in effect at ORD.

As all of this weather is moving west to east, expect to see ORD continue to grapple with this the rest of the day.