Passengers stranded in Iceland as severe weather grounds flights
Passengers have been left stranded at Iceland’s main airport due to extreme weather. Icelandair and low cost carrier Play were among airlines forced to cancel or delay flights, with images on social media showing people sleeping on the floor at Keflavik airport.
A raft of flights to destinations across Europe remained cancelled for a second day today (Tuesday) while the road connecting the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik with the airport was shut.
The situation triggered a travel alert warning of severe weather affecting the airport.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said: “High winds and dangerous icy road conditions are affecting transfers from Keflavik International airport.
“Emergency services have set up an emergency shelter nearby and are also providing blankets and water at the airport for those stranded.
“They are doing everything they can to move passengers on to hotel accommodation in the area as conditions allow. Please listen to announcements from airport staff.”
In an update on the Icelandair website, the carrier said: “Due to the severe weather circumstances in Iceland, we are unfortunately forced to cancel our morning flights from and to Keflavik on December 20.
“Day flights to Tenerife, Las Palmas and Boston have also been delayed and hopefully the weather will improve as the day progresses.
“We are still experiencing major road closure which is causing disruption to our operations. We will resolve any issues as fast as we can, but rebooking flights is taking longer than usual due to the volume of requests.
“All passengers will be rebooked automatically, and a new itinerary will be sent via email, so it is not necessary to contact Icelandair directly unless the alternative does not suit your travel plans.
“We kindly ask our customers to check their inbox frequently as we might be able to set up extra flights with short notice.
“If you are forced to stay overnight we will reimburse a hotel stay up to €150 per room which can be claimed on our website when the journey has been completed.”
Play warned that multiple flights will be affected by the weather disruption.
The carrier said: “Reykjanesbraut, the road that connects Keflavik airport to Reykjavik, is currently closed. If and when the road reopens, we kindly ask that passengers travelling by car or bus drive carefully and regularly check travel conditions.
“Maintaining passenger safety is our number one priority, and we will not hesitate to delay flights when necessary.
“If your flight was affected by a cancellation or delay you will receive a notification from Play with new details or information on when any update will be sent to you.
“Our service team are working hard to assist you all, however, due to high inflow this may take longer than usual. We ask for your patience during this time.”
