How is it possible that my flight was delayed for not having a crew?

[KatyaR]

82. Probably something between the weather and the new crew flight rules.

The rules take effect today.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/todayinthesky/2014/01/03/pilot-fatigue-mandatory-rest-new-faa-rules/4304417/

"New rules that require pilots to get a minimum amount of uninterrupted rest and limit the number of consecutive hours they can fly will go into effect on Saturday.

Airlines, which have had two years to prepare for the changes, say they are bracing for potential delays and cancellations, especially on days like today when bad weather is already mucking up flight schedules, the Wall Street Journal reports. If crews time out and relief pilots have to step in, that could cause disruptions, they say.

....

The new regulations, which don't apply to cargo pilots, require that pilots get at least 10 hours of rest between shifts. Eight of those hours must involve uninterrupted sleep. In the past, pilots could spend those eight hours getting to and from the hotel, showering and eating.

Pilots will be limited to flying eight or nine hours, depending on their start times. They must also have 30 consecutive hours of rest each week, a 25% increase over previous requirements."