US Airways is "embarrassed" by the weekend meltdown

"&to=http:// english.pravda.ru/main/2002/01/15/25489.html ' target=_blank>US Airways expects normal flight operations today, with the exception of approximately 15 flights cancelled due to heavy snow in the Boston and Providence, R.I. region," spokeswoman Amy Kudwa said via e-mail.

The bankrupt airline said luggage is being ferried to Charlotte, N.C. and Pittsburgh by plane and truck, and bags will be delivered to passengers as soon as possible.

US Airways, based in Arlington, Va., said it was "embarrassed" by the weekend meltdown. It largely blamed the mix-up on a record number of baggage handlers, flight attendants and ramp workers who called in sick, reports CBS News.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta said his department would investigate the disruptions, which the two airlines attributed to a combination of bad weather, computer malfunctions and unexpected staff shortages.

"It is important that the department and the traveling public understand what happened, why it happened and whether the carriers properly planned for the holiday travel period and responded appropriately to consumer needs in the aftermath," said Mineta.

US Airways, the bankrupt No. 7 U.S. airline, was still experiencing some delays on Monday after an unexpectedly high number of employees called in sick over the Christmas weekend, forcing the cancellation of hundreds of flights and leaving about 10,000 bags separated from their owners, informs Reuters.