Multiple flights were dramatically diverted from Manchester Airport to Newcastle International Airport on Tuesday as severe storms battered the UK, causing widespread travel chaos for passengers.
The sudden and intense weather system, characterised by powerful winds and torrential rain, made landing conditions at Manchester extremely hazardous. Air traffic controllers were forced to reroute several inbound aircraft to the North East as a safety precaution.
Passengers Face Lengthy Delays and Uncertainty
The unexpected diversions left travellers facing significant disruptions. Upon landing in Newcastle, passengers were held on planes for an extended period as airport authorities and airlines scrambled to organise onward travel back to Manchester.
Frustration grew as the logistics of the situation unfolded, with many passengers taking to social media to express their concerns over the lack of immediate information and the prospect of lengthy coach journeys.
Newcastle Airport Responds to Unplanned Influx
A spokesperson for Newcastle International Airport confirmed they had accepted the diverted flights. "We are assisting passengers from flights diverted from Manchester due to the adverse weather conditions," they stated. "Our team is working closely with the airlines to look after their passengers and facilitate their journeys."
The incident placed unexpected pressure on Newcastle's facilities, though operations at the airport itself were largely unaffected by the storm.
A Wider Pattern of Weather Disruption
This event is part of a broader pattern of travel disruption caused by the severe storm system moving across the country. The Met Office had issued yellow weather warnings for wind, cautioning the public about potential damage to buildings, travel cancellations, and power cuts.
Road and rail networks also reported delays and cancellations, highlighting the storm's significant impact on the UK's transport infrastructure. Aviation experts reiterated that such diversions, while inconvenient, are a standard and critical safety procedure to protect passengers and crew from dangerous wind shear and poor visibility during landing attempts.
Passengers affected by the diversions are advised to contact their airline directly for the latest information on compensation and rebooking options.
