Fort Lauderdale Airport Operating Flights, but Passengers Should Expect Travel Disruptions and Delays

Following Friday's deadly shooting at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the airport was completely shut down until 5 a.m. the following morning. 

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Currently, the airport is open and flights are operating, but USA Today reports there will still be "travel disruptions." 

Despite flights continuing, there will be the typical flight delays and cancellations a typical airport will possess, but expect a little more than usual. FlightAware reports 25 percent of outbound (113) and 21 percent of inbound (103) flights have been canceled. With the tragedy certainly being a factor, snowstorms across the nation play a slight role as well. 

Sadness And Security Concerns Over Fort Lauderdale Shooting

Flights have also been diverted to other airports in the area. Miami International and West Palm Beach airports along with other surrounding airports took on some of the flights following the airport lockdown. You are advised to check flight schedules from all of the airports if your travel plans were affected.

Travelers are dealing with long lines as they deal with the lost belongings, but for the most part, it seems the airport is going back to being as normal as possible. 

If you're one of many who left bags in place as passengers were forced to evacuate terminals, you're advised to call the Broward County Call Center at 866-435-9355. For items left on planes, fliers should contact their airline. There were over 20,000 bags left at the scene during Friday's events.

Authorities confirmed following the shooting that five people were killed and six wounded during the attacks. The gunman, who, pending investigations, is believed to have acted alone, arrived at the airport on an inbound flight and retrieved a weapon from his checked baggage before opening fire.