Passengers on a Ryanair flight from Manchester to Faro were left sleeping on the floor of Nantes Airport after their plane was diverted due to a crew member falling ill. The flight made an unscheduled stop in Nantes, France, on 12 May, but could not continue due to a strict curfew at the airport.
Traveller Joanne Wharton described the experience as 'traumatising'. She said passengers were initially told they would be taken to a hotel, but upon arrival at the airport, they found it deserted with no staff to assist. Eventually, they were directed to a conference room with gym mats and blankets.
Wharton, who was travelling alone, said she felt 'entirely unsafe' sleeping in a room with around 200 strangers. The rescheduled flight departed at around 10am the following morning, causing a delay of approximately 13 hours.
A Ryanair spokesperson said passengers were advised to make their own accommodation arrangements and claim expenses back. The airline added that some passengers chose to stay in the airport and were provided with mattresses, blankets, and refreshments.
