UK airport runway closure sparks chaos, strands passengers and suspends flights

Leeds Bradford Airport was forced to close its runway unexpectedly, leaving passengers “without vital information”. The airport said urgent repairs were being carried out and flights were suspended until at least 7pm.

Passengers took to social media platforms to express their frustration at the lack of communication from authorities and the absence of travel agent representatives. The airport issued a statement saying: “The runway is currently closed for urgent repairs. We do not anticipate being able to reopen until 7pm today. Please contact your airline for further travel advice.”

Flight disruptions may continue throughout the evening and residual disruptions are possible even after runway repairs are completed as airlines work to clear the backlog of passengers. Angry travelers took to social media to vent their frustration. Jamie noted: “This is typical when I fly out of Leeds-Bradford Airport.”

Dan criticised the lack of organisation, commenting: “And yet no information was given in the departures area,” Bristol Live reports. Jamie also reported: “Leeds Bradford Airport runway is locking no one out. Not a single @TUIUK rep anywhere in sight!!!!” Nicola expressed her sympathy for the staff, stating: “The poor Jet2 staff in Leeds Bradford have no idea what is going on. The airport website says the airport is closed until 7pm but the staff in the departures hall have not been told anything at all. @jet2tweets don’t throw them to the wolves.”

George Lionel expressed his frustration, saying: “We are waiting at the baggage carousel for our luggage. Has someone forgotten it?” In response to the complaints, the airport advised: “Please contact your airline for travel advice. Our teams are working tirelessly to make repairs and resume normal operations.”

Operator Jet2 issued a statement saying: “We have been informed of a runway closure at Leeds Bradford Airport due to urgent emergency repairs. This is an unscheduled change so we are doing everything we can to minimise disruption.”

They added: “Incoming flights have been diverted to another of our UK airports. To complete your journey, we are in the process of arranging coach transfers to Leeds Bradford Airport. As this is not planned, there may be a short delay in arranging transport. However, if you require any further information, our team of customer support agents will be happy to help.”

The statement continued: “For flights departing Leeds Bradford this afternoon, we will provide further updates here shortly. Please ensure your details in ‘Manage Booking’ are up to date as we will also be contacting affected customers by text and email. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience which is unfortunately beyond our control.”