weekend citing covid staffing shortages and bad weather, leaving passengers in limbo. >> we won't be able to get home. >> we've been checking all websites, the airports, the airlines. >> reporter: from coast to coast on christmas morning, those who did plan to see loved one, taking no chances. >> my girlfriend tested positive earlier this week and, you know, it's christmas morning, i'm trying to see my family and, you know, they're real covid conscious. i'm vaxxed and boosted. but we're trying to be safe. >> i'm getting tested because i'm seeing my family today. >> reporter: those lucky you have to get a test. >> the line goes all the way back there. we've been here two hours. >> reporter: others saw their christmas plans wiped out by a covid diagnosis. >> i tested positive for covid. currently just hanging out at the apartment by myself. >> i was devastated that i was going to have to miss the holidays. >> reporter: the surge in cases leaving many medical workers and personnel stretched thin with little to celebrate. >> it's literally devastating and heartbreaking that we are in