Dust storm halts flights at Phoenix Sky Harbor, causing major delays

A massive wall of dust swept over Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Monday afternoon.

(CNN)- A massive wall of dust swept over Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Monday afternoon, forcing a temporary halt to operations and disrupting flight schedules.

The ground stop was ordered just before the storm rolled across the tarmac, stalling planes on the runway and sending crews to shelter. The thick orange haze cut visibility dramatically as wind gusts of up to 70 miles per hour carried the dust in all directions.

Moments later, heavy rain and strong winds pounded the area. “A great flight, some lightning and everything was wonderful,” said passenger Kendra Joyce, describing the turbulent weather.

Flights bound for Phoenix were diverted to states including California, Nevada, and Texas. “He was ready to land and then he said wait—we’re being diverted back to Vegas,” recalled traveler Terri Underwood.

Although the ground stop was lifted before 6:30 p.m., both arrivals and departures faced significant delays as thunderstorms continued across Arizona. Some passengers reported waiting three to four hours, while others were left uncertain about when connecting flights would leave.

Despite the disruptions, many travelers said they were grateful for safety precautions. “I was praying up and down the whole way,” Underwood added. “It’s worth the wait—safety first.”