Storm Austen has disrupted flight operations across Western Europe on October 24, 2026. Jersey Airport recorded 41 cancelled flights (22 departures and 19 arrivals) on October 23, with cancellations continuing into the following day. Guernsey Airport sustained terminal damage overnight and cancelled flights to and from Somerset on October 24 and 25. Flight diversions affected key hubs including Paris Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Brussels Airport.
Flight Cancellations and Diversions by Airlines and Airports
KLM cancelled 20 flights on October 23 and planned 22 more cancellations on October 24 due to strong winds in the Netherlands. Brussels Airlines diverted a flight from Marseille to Amsterdam
Schiphol, while other flights originally destined for French airports landed at Brussels Airport. Loganair cancelled multiple flights connecting Southampton, Jersey, Bristol, and Exeter. Exeter Airport reported flight cancellations on October 24, and London City Airport readied for delays caused by exposed runways and wind gusts up to 80 mph.
Official Airport Statements and Damage Assessment
Guernsey Airport reported terminal damage after high winds overnight and began assessments on October 24. A Guernsey Airport statement said, “The terminal suffered some damage overnight due to the high winds. Teams from Guernsey Ports carried out initial inspections this morning to assess the extent of the damage. Full internal and
external safety checks will be carried out before the building is reopened to the public.” Airport director Richard Thomasson added they aimed to reopen the terminal at 2 p.m. and might extend operating hours to facilitate passenger movement.
Bristol Airport advised passengers to check flight status before travelling and allow extra journey time. The airport’s official statement said, “With Storm Austen causing disruption across the UK today, passengers travelling to and from Bristol Airport are advised to: Check your flight status before travelling. Monitor airline updates. Allow extra time for your journey and drive safely.”
Secondary Transport and Infrastructure Disruptions
Severe weather associated with Storm
Austen caused rail and road disruptions in England. National Rail and Great Western Railway reported cancellations and delays due to fallen trees and lightning strikes, complicating access to airports. More than 18,000 homes lost power in south-west England by 10:30 a.m. on October 24, according to National Grid Electricity Distribution. School closures included 20 schools in Brighton closed for the day and 50 opening late. The Met Office issued an amber wind warning covering Scotland, Northern Ireland’s north coast, Cumbria, and Northumberland from 9 p.m. on October 24 for 24 hours.
Passenger Impact and Travel Advice
Passengers affected by cancellations and delays are advised that
severe weather cancellations may not qualify for financial compensation. Travel disruptions were most acute in the Channel Islands, south-west and south-east England, and in France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Guernsey Airport’s terminal reopening was pending final safety checks, while multiple airlines continued to adjust schedules in response to heavy rain and gusts ranging between 50 to 80 mph across the UK and Channel Islands.
