More transatlantic flights forced by wind to land for fuel

The highest winds over the Atlantic Ocean in more than 10 years have forced dozens of nonstop Continental Airlines flights from Europe to the eastern U.S. to make unscheduled refueling stops in Canada and elsewhere, a media report says. The fuel stops at airports such as Gander, N.L., and Halifax are partly the result of a decision by parent United Airlines to use smaller jets on the overseas flights. The strategy works in light winds and saves money on fuel and crew costs, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday. Using some of its Boeing 757s on flights that approach their 7,400-kilometre range, the airline doesn't leave much room for error in estimating fuel when the planes' twin engines are flying into strong headwinds, the paper says. The result has been delays for passengers and added operating costs. Read More