Majorca’s Palma Son Sant Joan Airport has been facing significant disruptions due to severe weather conditions. Torrential rain and severe flooding across the Balearic Islands have resulted in hundreds of tourists being stranded and over 300 flights canceled or delayed.
The impact of the storms has been felt throughout the islands. On Wednesday, 150 flights were canceled, followed by 180 cancellations on Thursday and another ten on Friday. Passengers have faced lengthy delays and uncertainty as they navigate the chaotic situation.
Ryanair, one of the airlines affected by the cancellations, issued an apology to its passengers. However, the airline criticized Spanish Air Traffic Control for its decision to halt incoming flights while departing flights continued as normal, calling the decision “nonsensical.” This decision caused confusion and frustration among travelers.
The severe weather, part of the ‘DANA depression,’ has also affected the surrounding islands. In Menorca, the situation escalated to such a degree that the Civil Guard had to carry out helicopter rescues for 16 individuals trapped by flooding. The authorities in Menorca are now requesting that the Spanish government declare the most severely affected areas as a ‘disaster zone.’
Fortunately, conditions at Palma Airport are showing signs of improvement. The airport has reported that most delays are now under 30 minutes, a significant improvement from the earlier disruptions. ‘Normality’ is expected to return by Saturday, August 17.
Jet2, a British airline, has also provided updates to its passengers, informing them of ongoing maintenance work at Palma Airport. The airline has assured passengers that efforts are underway to ensure a smooth airport experience. To help travelers navigate the situation, Jet2 has provided specific check-in and boarding instructions.
As the Balearic Islands recover from the impact of the recent storms, tourists and locals alike are hopeful for a swift return to normal operations at Palma Son Sant Joan Airport. While the worst of the weather appears to have passed, the situation serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of travel during extreme weather events.
