Numerous flights from Sydney airport cancelled due to heavy downpour

Monday, December 25, 2023

Sydney holiday season disrupted by floods: numerous flights canceled, airport flooded, and NSW SES on high alert amid severe weather warnings.

In the wake of torrential downpours and sudden flooding, Australia faced widespread disruptions during the holiday season. On December 24th and 25th, intense rainfall led to significant flooding, prompting emergency responses across the nation. The New South Wales (NSW) State Emergency Services were particularly active, dealing with over 490 flood-related incidents, including numerous rescues in the Sydney area, as reported by Sky News. The flooding had a notable impact on the nation’s major airport, disrupting its operations due to waterlogged runways.

Flight schedules were heavily affected, with a notable number of cancellations even as the airport resumed normal operations on Christmas. Travelers found their holiday plans disrupted, with Sky News noting that by mid-morning on Monday, numerous flights were canceled. This included several flights from prominent airlines such as Virgin, Qantas, Jetstar, and other regional carriers. Visual evidence of the flooding showed the airport’s tarmac completely submerged.

Virgin Australia acknowledged the flight cancellations, attributing them to the extreme weather conditions around Sydney in the preceding 24 hours. “The recent weather conditions in and surrounding Sydney have led to disruptions and, in some instances, cancellations,” a representative of Virgin Australia informed Sky News. Concurrently, NSW issued warnings about potential severe weather continuing into Christmas night and Boxing Day. The NSW State Emergency Services prepared for further emergencies, with assets prepositioned and rescue teams on alert. They also issued a flood watch for several rivers, indicating the widespread nature of the weather’s impact.

« Back to Page

• Air Liban Cancels Flights to Dubai Due to Severe Weather Conditions

• Qantas Temporarily Halts London Service, Braces for Iranian Attack on Israel

• Storm Disrupted Travel in Eastern US: Several Flights Cancelled and Delayed in Orlando

• Flight or Fright Turns Real as Vistara Cancellation Crisis Leaves Travelers Adrift

• Virgin Atlantic flight to New York cancelled as passenger notices missing bolts