Airlines warn of "potential disruption" as strong winds hit UK
Jet2 and Ryanair have apologised to travellers for any delays to flights
Last updated 22nd Dec 2024
Airlines have warned passengers to prepare for "potential disruption" to flights as strong winds continue to hit the UK.
A yellow weather warning for wind is currently in force across much of the country, with the North West, South West, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland all being affected.
According to the warning, which was given by the Met Office, gusts of up to 70 miles per hour are expected until the warning expires at 9pm on Sunday (December 22nd).
On top of this, a number of other areas are expected to see large hailstorms and thunder, while showers of rain are expected to be persistent.
Ryanair and Jet2 have now advised their passengers to be aware of "potential disruption" to their services, adding that delays could be likely.
In a statement on their website, Ryanair said: "Affected passengers will be notified and any passengers travelling to/from the UK on Sun 22 Dec should check their Ryanair app for the latest updates on their flight.
"We regret any inconvenience caused to passengers by Storm Eowyn, which is outside of Ryanair's control and affects all airlines operating to/from the UK on Sun 22 Dec."
Similarly, Jet2 apologised to customers in advance amid the high winds, saying in their own statement: "If you are travelling with Jet2.com we plan to operate our flights as close to schedule as possible, however, there may be some disruption should the weather deteriorate.
"Jet2.com would like to apologise in advance for any disruption you may experience. Your comfort and safety is our number one priority, we will have you on the way as soon as possible."
Ryanair and Jet2 serve many airports currently within the yellow wind warning areas, including Manchester Airport, Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Bristol Aiport and Birmingham Airport.
The disruption follows further chaos due to the high winds, which has resulted in some flights and ferries being cancelled.
On Saturday (December 21st), London Heathrow Airport reported that "a small number of flights" had been cancelled as a result of "strong winds and airspace restrictions".
A spokesperson for the airport said: "This will ensure the vast majority of passengers can still safely travel as planned.
"We know how important travel at this time of year is and have extra colleagues on hand in our terminals to support people on their journeys. We encourage passengers to check in with their airlines for the latest information about their flights."