Plane passengers trapped for hours as high winds stop ground handling

Wednesday 02 August 2023

Passengers on three flights that arrived at Jersey Airport this afternoon were trapped on their planes for hours as high winds "temporarily stopped all aircraft handling".

Passengers on one EasyJet Liverpool flight and two Easyjet Luton flights – which all landed between 13:30 and 14:30 on Wednesday afternoon – were unable to disembark for around three hours.

"Winds have been gusting to 50 knots at the airport and Swissport’s operational limits are 40 knots, so the ground crew has temporarily stopped all aircraft handling until it is safe to operate," a Ports of Jersey spokesperson said.

"These operational limits are in place to protect the safety of passengers, staff, and equipment."

One passenger on the Liverpool flight who contacted Express via social media complained: "We are still on the plane with no signs of movement and the risk of wind is picking up again... No one is telling us anything on board now and it's been nearly three hours."

Another parent on board the flight told Express after being stuck for two hours: "Nothing's been offered even to the kids, you have to pay for [food and drink]."

Just as crew began to offer a soft drink and small snack half-an-hour later, the steps were delivered and passengers were finally able to leave.

Tide Warning for Jersey issued 08:49 Wednesday 02 August 2023. pic.twitter.com/nNyu4XIXE4

— Jersey Met (@Jersey_Met) August 2, 2023

High winds have also caused Condor Ferries to cancel ferries between the Channel Islands, the UK, and France.

Jersey Met has issued an orange tide warning, with wind and high tides on Wednesday night expecting to lead to water and debris along the island's south coast.

Police have also issued advice to islanders out and about in the rough weather this evening.

"Please take care when travelling this evening, overnight and tomorrow morning due to gale force winds, high tides and heavy rain. Even moderate rain can reduce your ability to see and be seen," the force urged.

"If you can, choose main roads, where you are less likely to be exposed to fallen branches, debris and flooding. Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance."

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