Dense fog significantly disrupted air travel across the Netherlands on Friday evening, leading to multiple flight cancellations and diversions at major airports including Eindhoven, Rotterdam The Hague, and Schiphol. The National Weather Institute (KNMI) issued warnings across the country as visibility dropped below 200 meters, compelling authorities to take measures as air travel became increasingly challenging.
Reports indicate the cancellation of numerous flights at Schiphol, with nearly sixty flights either canceled or rerouted due to the dense fog conditions. According to KNMI, "The fog is dense, with visibility less than 200 meters, affecting traffic. Yellow alert issued across the country." This situation extended to Eindhoven Airport, where flights from locations such as Ibiza, Lisbon, and Marrakesh were redirected to Schiphol due to the inability to land safely.
At Rotterdam The Hague Airport, operations were similarly hampered; seven departing and seven arriving flights had to be canceled, with some airplanes instead flying to Schiphol. A spokesperson noted, "The cancellations did not lead to unrest at Rotterdam Airport," indicating the airport remained relatively calm amid the confusion.
The impact of the fog was felt throughout the country, as the KNMI warned residents about low visibility affecting general vehicle traffic as well. Travelers faced uncertainty, particularly those planning to fly on Saturday morning, with reports stating it was still unclear what the exact consequences on the flight schedules would be.
Passengers at Eindhoven found themselves stranded initially, with incoming flights from Alicante, Prague, and Malaga among those canceled due to visibility issues. Flights from Sevilla, Hurghada, and other destinations were reported to have been rerouted, with travelers arriving at alternative airports such as Weeze, Cologne, and Düsseldorf instead of their intended destination. The spokesperson for Eindhoven Airport advised travelers to keep updated on flight statuses, stating, "Passengers are advised to keep in contact with their airline for updates."
The situation raised significant concern for those relying on air travel during the busy holiday season, and many took to social media to share their frustrations about the disruption. Some passengers, unhappy with the last-minute changes, voiced their dissatisfaction over the lack of clear communication, underscoring the importance of timely updates from airlines during such adverse weather.
Weather experts noted this was not just an isolated incident but part of more severe winter conditions impacting flying capabilities across various regions, leading to the need for careful planning around flight schedules during fog-prone periods.
Airline operators also faced challenges as flight crews were required to navigate the shifting conditions, and extra caution was advised. Officials from multiple airports mentioned they would strive to return to normal operation as soon as weather conditions improved. Nevertheless, the fog was expected to persist through the night, with continued effects on Saturday's travel aspirations. The reports indicated delays and alterations to flight schedules were likely to extend until after 10 AM Saturday.
Travelers hoping to reach loved ones for New Year celebrations were advised to prepare for potential delays and to follow the situation closely via official channels. The National Weather Institute and local airport authorities will be monitoring visibility, providing updates frequent enough to keep passengers informed about their travel plans.
By late Friday, it was still unclear how many travelers would be impacted. To mitigate confusion, many airlines have been proactive, sending alert notifications, and emphasizing the importance of checking online for the latest news.
Despite the trials faced on the ground, the rapid communication and strategic operational adjustments by airlines and airports demonstrated their commitment to ensuring passenger safety was the main priority, even amid the unforeseen challenges posed by weather conditions.
