LIVE Storm Darragh forcing diversions for flights to UK and Ireland

Several international flights have been diverted from their original destinations due to adverse weather conditions characterized by strong winds. Specifically, flights from Etihad, Air Canada, Emirates, and Ryanair, all destined for various London airports, were redirected to Frankfurt and Brussels. The Cardiff Airport (EGFF) has been closed to arrivals until 1300 UTC, while London City Airport (EGLC) has also faced limitations on arrivals due to the same weather issues, with a complete unavailability for landings from 1300 to 1700 UTC. Heathrow Airport (EGLL) is experiencing regulated arrivals, reducing the rate further until 1300 UTC, contributing to significant flight delays without the possibility of improvements in the calculated takeoff time (CTOT). From an expert perspective in the transportation field, such disruptions highlight the vulnerabilities of airports to weather-related issues. Strong winds can severely affect safety protocols, leading to operational adjustments like diversions and temporary closures. This situation emphasizes the importance of investing in robust forecasting technology and efficient communication systems to better manage air traffic during adverse weather, thus minimizing passenger inconvenience and operational chaos. Additionally, airports must have contingency plans in place to handle such disruptions, ensuring that passengers are informed and provided with necessary assistance during rerouting or delays.