Rising Temperatures Disrupt Air Travel Across U.S. Southwest
Extreme heat is increasingly affecting air travel, particularly in desert climates like the U.S. Southwest. High temperatures thin the air, reducing aircraft lift and engine thrust, which can necessitate weight restrictions, such as removing passengers, cargo, or fuel. Airports like Phoenix Sky Harbor and Las Vegas' Harry Reid International are seeing more frequent disruptions as temperatures regularly exceed 110°F (43°C). For example, Delta Air Lines canceled a flight in Las Vegas in July 2023 due to excessive heat. Researchers warn that climate change could make such disruptions more common, with studies projecting weight restrictions on 10-30% of flights at certain airports by midcentury if emissions continue to rise. 
