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Update: YVR 'operational' amid evolving storm, flights cancelled by WestJet, Air Canada

But the 'severe winter weather' could affect flights later in the day as snow changes into freezing rain.
Snow at YVR airport
YVR in the snow.

According to Vancouver International Airport (YVR)'s update, the airport is running despite a fresh blanket of snow.

YVR's latest update as of 1:30 p.m. on Friday shows that 323 flights have been cancelled, while 22 departures and 32 arrivals were recorded so far.

Flights continue to arrive and depart from Vancouver, but this might not last as eight to 14 cm of precipitation is expected throughout the day, which might turn snow into freezing rain.

Travellers are asked to plan ahead as the incoming winter storm will continue to evolve and could further impact flights. As of now, WestJet has cancelled flights to and from YVR from Thursday night through late Friday afternoon.

CTV also reported that Air Canada has cancelled a number of domestic flights departing Vancouver on Friday.

Air India and Singapore Airlines flights are also either cancelled or facing "lengthy delays," but the reasons are unrelated to the weather.

According to YVR's update, it is working with airline partners to restart their operations.

YVR released a statement yesterday calling the mass cancellations earlier in the week "unacceptable," but said runways, taxiways and aprons have since been reopened and "cleared of snow and ice."

The airport had temporarily limited some arriving international flights up until 5 a.m. this morning to prepare for the incoming winter storm. Additional staff will also be deployed to support passengers.

Travellers are warned to expect more delays and cancellations as the storm evolves. To better prepare for their trips, travellers can check their flight details online and leave extra time when travelling to the airport. Canada Line services to and from YVR have now resumed, but road and transit conditions across the region remain challenging due to the weather.

- With files from Elana Shepert and the Canadian Press.