Storm snarls air travel in American northeast

A snowstorm blanketed New York City early Friday, causing headaches for commuters and delaying flights at the region’s major airports.

The National Weather Service predicted 5 to 7 inches (13 to 18 centimeters) for New York City, and more in some northern suburbs. The storm is the first significant snowfall so far this winter in the city.

Flights at John F Kennedy International Airport were delayed more than five hours. Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey had delays of almost seven hours, and LaGuardia Airport was reporting delays of up to three hours.

Several airlines, including JetBlue Airways and Delta Air Lines, were letting passengers flying to or from the area rebook their tickets without paying a change fee.

Schools from Ohio to Connecticut called off classes for Friday.

Before moving into the northeast, the storm dropped up to four inches 4 (10 centimeters) of snow on parts of southwest and central Ohio. Dozens of crashes were scattered across highways. (AP)