By Bill Parry
The Port Authority launched an investigation into the water pipe break that occurred at JFK International Airport Sunday afternoon that caused flooding and the evacuation of Terminal 4 and the temporary suspension of international flights.
Sunday’s incident added to the misery experienced by travelers since Thursday, when Winter Storm Grayson caused hundreds of flights to be canceled or diverted and the airport struggled with a backlog of flights in the midst of record low temperatures all weekend long.
“What happened at JFK Airport is unacceptable, and travelers expect and deserve better,” Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said. “While the water pipe break that occurred appears to be weather-related, we have launched an investigation into the incident to determine exactly what occurred and why an internal pipe was not weather protected and whether any other failures contributed to this disruption. The Port Authority is committed to providing the highest caliber of service to all travelers and we will hold those responsible accountable for any shortcomings we find.”
Domestic and international flights are in operation, but with delays and passengers, as well as those meeting flights, are encouraged to check with their carriers for any changes in flight schedules.
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
