Manchester Airport's runways were temporarily closed on Monday morning due to heavy snowfall, leading to disruptions for travelers. The airport announced the closure at 6:30 AM and reassured passengers about their safety.
"The safety of our passengers is our top priority, and we appreciate your patience during this time," the airport stated. Snow-clearing teams worked diligently to make the runways operational again, highlighting their commitment to maintaining safety and efficiency amid severe weather.
By the late morning, Manchester Airport confirmed the runways had reopened, but warned passengers to brace for possible flight delays. "Our runways are now open but, as a result of the earlier closure, some departures and arrivals may still experience delays," the airport said. They encouraged travelers to check with their airlines for real-time updates and advised to allow extra travel time due to the snowfall.
The Met Office had issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across Merseyside and the surrounding North West region, reflecting the challenging conditions faced by the area. These weather warnings were part of several alerts issued over the weekend, as the region was grappling with the impact of heavy snow, ice, and flooding.
Travel disruptions were not isolated to the airport alone. Arriva buses across the North West experienced significant delays, cancellations, and diversions due to adverse weather conditions. Similarly, Merseyrail trains faced serious disruptions, with all services between Hooton and Chester cancelled as flooding affected those routes.
With transport networks strained, travelers took to social media to express frustrations and seek updates. The airport urged everyone to remain vigilant and informed, reinforcing their commitment to passenger safety amid tough weather. "Please check with your airline for the latest flight information and allow extra travel time today," they reminded. The airport also extended gratitude to the teams whose hard work ensured the reopening of the runways as soon as possible.
This incident highlights the ripple effect severe weather can have on air travel and regional transport systems. Passengers are advised to check the latest updates and travel advisories before leaving for the airport or other transportation hubs.
With changing weather conditions predicted, ensuring safety during travel remains of utmost importance for both passengers and providers alike. For now, Manchester Airport continues to monitor the situation closely, striving to provide timely updates and assistance to travelers.