Dust storm in Australia causes flights delays

News added by Fred under Airline News

A huge dust storm has been swept across Sydney by winds from the Outback, causing “severe” delays to flights.The country’s largest airline, Qantas, said both domestic and international flights had been disrupted by the dust storm, which has seen Australia’s largest city swathed in red dust.

All international flight arrivals were being diverted to Brisbane or Melbourne this morning, while severe ongoing delays to both international and domestic services are expected to continue throughout the day.

“Passengers should continue to travel to the airport for their scheduled flights (to or from Sydney), but should expect severe delays to their travel,” said Qantas in a statement.

“We encourage any passengers with non-essential travel arrangements, to reconsider their travel plans for the day.”Passengers wishing to cancel their flights today (domestic only) will be offered a refund or the opportunity to change their booking without penalty.”

Qantas aims to operate all international services also with delays.Australian airline Jetstar was, however, forced to cancel flights from Sydney Airport.The red dust enveloping some eastern parts of New South Wales has been carried by strong winds, snatching up tons of topsoil from the drought-ravaged west of the state.

Bookmark this article: