Airlines were forced to cancel, delay or re-route multiple flights across the UK as Storm Isha swept in with high winds and heavy rain across the country.
Flights from Belfast were cancelled yesterday ahead of an amber weather alert coming into force at 6pm, with schedules returning early this morning.
Disruption was reported at multiple airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Bristol, Glasgow and Edinburgh as air traffic control restrictions were imposed.
Reported examples included a Ryanair flight from Tenerife to Edinburgh diverted to Cologne, a Tui aircraft to Glasgow from Sharm El Sheikh diverted to Manchester airport together with an EasyJet flight from Fuerteventura to Edinburgh and a Jet2 service from Tenerife to Glasgow switched to Stansted.
British Airways said: “Like other airlines, we have had to make schedule adjustments due to the adverse weather conditions across the UK and Europe caused by Storm Isha.
“We’ve apologised to our customers for the disruption to their travel plans and our teams are working hard to get them on their way as quickly as possible.”
Ryanair warned of potential flight disruption to and from the UK into today due to Storm Isha.
Jet2 said: “Our UK based operation teams are constantly monitoring the current and forecasted weather with the Met Office to ensure we can react to any changes as quickly as possible.
“We are aware that throughout Monday 22nd January 2024 there will be various Yellow and Amber alerts in place at various times across parts of the UK due to the adverse effects of Storm Isha.
“Due to the forecasted high winds and rain forecast throughout the day, customers travelling with us from the UK are advised to allow extra time to get to the airport and check with any transport suppliers you are relying on to get you to the airport for any disruption they may be facing.
“Currently we plan to operate all Jet2.com flights on time and our check in desks will continue to close 40 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.”
Glasgow airport said: “Due to the adverse weather impacts of Storm Isha, we would ask anyone due to travel to check with their airlines direct regarding the status of their flight.”
A yellow warning for wind remains across the country until midday – with gusts of 50-60 mph forecast inland. Gusts could reach 70-80 mph in exposed coastal areas.
A further yellow warning for wind for Scotland, Northern Ireland, north Wales and northern England was also issued from 4pm on Tuesday until noon on Wednesday.