The Kansas City Chiefs have arrived in Denver, but not without facing some serious travel delays.
The defending Super Bowl champions were forced to deal with a chaotic day of travel, as their flight to Colorado was delayed for hours due to a winter storm.
Delays Caused by Winter Storm and Airport Issues
Originally scheduled to leave for Denver around 2:45 PM on Saturday, the Chiefs didn’t manage to depart until around 6:30 PM ET.
The storm, which led to rapid ice accumulation, caused authorities to close the Kansas City International Airport runway, holding the team’s flight on the ground for an extended period.
Chiefs Secure No. 1 Seed with Mahomes Resting
Despite the travel headaches, quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce were seen walking off the plane in snowy Denver.
Mahomes, however, is being rested for Sunday’s game against the Broncos, as the Chiefs have already secured the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
There had been some uncertainty regarding Mahomes’ participation, as he and his wife Brittany are expecting their third child at any moment.
Kelce could also sit out the game, but he was spotted walking onto the runway in Denver, indicating he may still play.
Flight Delays Continue with Airport Troubles
The Chiefs’ travel troubles didn’t end there.
The malfunction of the airport’s de-icing machine added to the delay, making it impossible for flights to depart on time.
Some flights, including the Chiefs’, were even rerouted to Omaha, Nebraska, over 500 miles east of Denver.
Despite trying to adjust their plans, the Chiefs were unable to leave earlier in the day due to a delay in the arrival of their chartered plane.
The team finally got the green light just after 5:30 PM ET when the airport announced that operations would soon resume.
Sunday’s Game Against the Broncos
Now, after a long and stressful day of travel, the Chiefs are set to face the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
The game will be held at 4:25 PM ET, and the Chiefs will look to cap off their regular season with a win.
Despite the travel woes, they remain focused on securing a strong finish to the season.