Manchester Airport, the third-busiest in Britain, faced a significant setback on Sunday as over 100 flights were cancelled, impacting thousands of passengers. The airport spokesperson reported that at least 20 percent of all outgoing and incoming flights had to be cancelled, with expectations of further disruptions.
Causes of the Disruption
The disruption was attributed to a major power cut in the area which affected the airport operations. This led to issues with the airport’s security and baggage systems, creating chaos and delays for travelers. Passengers at two out of the three terminals were advised to stay away while the airport worked to resolve the situation.
After several hours of uncertainty, flights at Manchester Airport were able to resume in the afternoon. The airport managing director, Chris Woodroofe, expressed optimism on social media about returning to normal operations by the following day. However, some airlines like Jet2 faced challenges with loading baggage onto planes due to the inoperable baggage system.
Impact on Airlines and Passengers
EasyJet, one of the affected airlines, had to cancel a significant number of flights and warned passengers about potential long queues for security checks. Some incoming flights had to be diverted to other airports, further adding to the inconvenience for travelers. Passengers described scenes of chaos, with some stranded on planes or waiting endlessly for their baggage.
Ongoing Issues in the Travel Industry
The aviation industry in the UK has been plagued by various technical and strike-related disruptions in recent years. From nationwide immigration e-gate outages to air traffic control faults, passengers have faced numerous challenges when traveling. The incident at Manchester Airport is yet another reminder of the vulnerabilities in the system.
As incidents like the power cut at Manchester Airport continue to occur, there is a growing need for airports and airlines to enhance their resilience and preparedness for such situations. Implementing robust backup systems, communication protocols, and passenger support mechanisms are essential in minimizing the impact of disruptions on travelers.
The aftermath of the power cut at Manchester Airport serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of the aviation industry and the significant disruptions that can arise from unforeseen events. It is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to address vulnerabilities and improve the overall travel experience for passengers.