Published on 01/06/2025 at 2:30 p.m.
Wintery conditions on Sunday caused significant disruption to air and rail transport in Germany and the United Kingdom, leading to flight cancellations and road closures.
(Boursier.com) — Winter weather conditions caused significant disruptions to air and rail transport on Sunday, particularly in the United Kingdom and Germany. Snow, freezing rain and fog forced several major airports to suspend flights, affecting thousands of passengers. Frankfurt, Munich and Berlin-Brandenburg airports in Germany were particularly affected by flight cancellations, while in the UK there were runway closures and diversions at Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham airports.
The worst was seen at Frankfurt Airport, where 120 flights were canceled. Airport capacity has been significantly reduced, requiring careful management of landings and takeoffs. In Munich, 35 flights were canceled, while in Berlin-Brandenburg, 30 flights were suspended.
In Berlin, Brandenburg Airport halved the number of arrivals on Sunday evening due to the risk of icy conditions. Only 20 planes per hour, compared to the usual 40, were allowed to land. Travelers were advised to check information with their airlines before heading to the airport and to allow extra time for travel.
Risks of delays during the work week
In Germany, winter conditions also disrupted trains, with cancellations and significant delays reported in the Frankfurt area. Train operator Deutsche Bahn has reported problems with track snow clearance and reduced visibility, mainly affecting InterCity Express (ICE) high-speed trains. But from midday, train services began to gradually return to normal, although occasional delays persisted.
In the United Kingdom, climatic conditions also had consequences on the transport network. Many roads in northern England have become impassable due to accumulating snow. British airports have had to close runways and divert flights. Liverpool Airport suspended its operations, as did Birmingham Airport which suspended its activities for several hours overnight from Saturday to Sunday.
Many trains have been canceled and National Rail has warned delays will continue into the working week. Rail and airport services on both sides of the Channel are expected to gradually return to normal operation, although weather conditions remain difficult. Travelers are advised to follow real-time updates and consider the risk of cancellations or delays to their journeys.
