All flights have been suspended at London Stansted Airport after its runway was closed due to snow clearance. The airport confirmed on Sunday night that the single runway was shut to allow for snow removal, halting all departures and arrivals.
In a statement, Stansted said: “London Stansted Airport’s runway is currently closed to allow for snow clearance due to weather conditions and all flights are currently suspended. Delays to flights were experienced earlier due to de-icing of aircraft... safety of aircraft and passengers is paramount.” Passengers have been advised to check with their airlines for updates.
The disruption follows a weekend of severe weather across the UK, with Manchester, Heathrow, and Gatwick airports also experiencing cancellations and delays. Manchester Airport closed both runways on Saturday due to heavy snowfall, affecting dozens of flights. Heathrow cancelled over 50 flights on Sunday due to freezing fog and air traffic control restrictions.
Gatwick Airport temporarily closed one runway on Sunday evening from 17:55 to 20:00 GMT due to unexpected snow, leading to delays, cancellations, and 28 diversions to other airports. A yellow weather warning remains in place for Scotland, London, and south-west England on Monday, with further travel disruption expected on roads and railways.
Heavy snowfall caused multiple traffic collisions on Sunday, particularly in north-west England, with accidents on the M58, M62, and M61. The AA has advised motorists to adjust their driving to the freezing conditions. Train services have also been delayed across affected regions.
