"Travelers' Frustrations Mount as Flight Disruptions Leave Baggage Stranded"

United Airlines has faced significant disruptions and customer frustrations due to severe thunderstorms and weather-related cancellations and delays. The airline led in cancellations and delays this week, with Newark, Chicago, Denver, and San Francisco being the most affected airports. United blamed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the operational issues, citing staffing shortages. However, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg pushed back on this claim, stating that United Airlines has internal issues to address. Passengers experienced long wait times for customer service, lost baggage, and missed work or family vacations. Some questioned whether staffing shortages and crew scheduling played a role in the ongoing disruptions. United expects improvements ahead of the July 4 travel weekend but did not address staffing shortages or offer additional reimbursements. United employees also expressed frustrations, and lawmakers have criticized the airline's response. Many passengers remain stranded or have canceled their travel plans.