Thunderstorms Disrupt Multiple Weekend Flights
Severe thunderstorms caused temporary ground stops at L.F. Wade International Airport over the weekend, disrupting ground handling operations and resulting in delays to multiple flights including ones operated by British Airways, Air Canada, JetBlue, United and American Airlines.
In response to queries from Bernews, a Skyport spokesperson said, “Ground handling operations at L.F. Wade International Airport were disrupted over the weekend due to severe thunderstorm activity. In accordance with standard operating procedures and global aviation safety practices designed to protect ground handling personnel from potential lightning strikes, temporary ‘Ground Stops’ were in affect on Saturday August 22 and Sunday August 23. The resulting suspension of ground activities, including fuelling, aircraft marshalling, and baggage handling, led to flight disruptions that trickled over into Monday August 24.
Image of lightning over St George’s this weekend
Flight Impacts
August 22
“British Airways flight BA158, normally scheduled to depart for London at 8:05 pm on Saturdays, was delayed due to the ground stop, ultimately departing at 10:53 p.m.
August 23
“Air Canada flight AC1818, arrived late from Toronto at 4:00 p.m., rather than its scheduled arrival time of 12:40 pm and was subsequently held on the taxiway due to the ground stop. The flight departed at 7:44 pm, .
“JetBlue flight B6 2032, scheduled to depart for New York JFK at 3:25 pm, was unable to depart after the ground stop was lifted as the flight crew had timed out. The rescheduled departure occurred on August 24 at 12:14 p.m.
“United Airlines flight UA2392 departed for Newark at 8:10 p.m. rather than its scheduled 2:50 pm departure time, following delays associated with the ground stop and a crew‑related issue that was subsequently resolved.
“American Airlines flight AA2044, which arrived from Charlotte at 3:18 p.m, and was scheduled to depart at 3:54 pm, did not depart until 7:49 pm.
“British Airways flight BA158, arrived from London at 5:49 p.m., experienced a delay upon arrival due to the ground stop. The return flight, flight BA159, was later cancelled due to a maintenance issue. Passengers were escorted to collect their luggage, and those able to leave the airport did so. Others who elected to remain in the terminal were provided refreshments, blankets, and pillows.”
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