'So many people need hotel rooms'

For “the first time” ever, Paul Lopez said he arrived to an airport two hours ahead of takeoff.

That didn't help him at Kennedy Airport Friday night, when he said his Alaska Airlines flight back home to San Diego was delayed three times before it was ultimately canceled.

He said he was provided “no information” other than the fact that he missed a rebooking window and cannot schedule a flight home until 5:30 p.m. Saturday. He added that the hotel where he stayed this week for around $250 a night would cost him $1,250 Friday evening. He was still trying to figure out where to stay about 8 p.m.

“They told me on the phone since so many people need hotel rooms. They can jack up the prices,” Lopez, 44, said. “I told them ‘ thank you so much for your hospitality and loyalty. I will never be staying there again.’”