BOSTON, Massachusetts: U.S. airlines were forced to cancel over 2,800 flights late last week after the Northeast was buffeted by severe weather.

The majority of cancellations occurred on June 16 and 17.

The largest number of cancellations were reported in New York City area airports, Charlotte Douglas International Airport and Boston Logan International Airport.

By coincidence, airline executives met with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on June 16 to discuss how to prevent cancellations and delays during the upcoming July 4 holiday.

Additionally, Buttigieg said the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would work to keep air traffic operating smooth and on schedule, following criticism from some in the airlines industry.

Meanwhile, FAA officials report they are working to hire more air traffic controllers.