Why flights are more likely to be delayed at certain times of day

The later you fly, the more likely you are to get
 a little bit of extra time at your gate. (Getty)

Aviation experts weigh in on why the early bird doesn't just get the worm — it gets the on-time departure.

Nothing can throw a wrench in carefully laid travel plans quite like a flight delay. And, unfortunately, your chances of encountering one are better than ever. In 2025, 23.3% of U.S. flights — that’s over 1.8 million — were delayed more than 15 minutes or canceled altogether, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. That’s the largest such percentage in eight years.

Frequent fliers know delays come with the territory, but just like you can pack a bag that’s more likely to get you through airport security faster, you can schedule a flight that’s more likely to leave on time. Here’s the scoop.

By Sandra Latham

Full story at Yahoo News