Christmas chaos unleashed: Cairns airport underwater, travelers’ plans in turmoil
Cairns Airport has been brought to a standstill by a developing flood emergency, as ex-tropical cyclone Jasper continues to batter far north Queensland. With the last flight arrivals at 12:45 pm on Sunday and departures halted at 2 pm due to rising floodwaters, the aftermath of the cyclone has wreaked havoc on Christmas travel plans.
Airport CEO’s Statement and Urgent Assessments:
Richard Barker, CEO of Cairns Airport, conveyed the uncertainty surrounding the airport’s operations, stating, “If things play out well, we could be open again if it’s safe to do so tomorrow, otherwise it could be a couple of days.” The airport’s official website confirmed that operations would not recommence, pending further assessments at first light.
Holiday Havoc: Unprecedented Flooding Shuts Down Cairns Airport, Thousands Stranded
Jetstar Flight’s Turbulent Journey:
One of the last planes to land before the closure was a Jetstar flight from Perth, which faced extended flight time and diverted attempts due to stormy weather. Passenger Evelyn Love criticized the airline for inadequate support during the lengthy stopover, highlighting the struggles of passengers, including children and individuals with medical needs.
Jetstar’s Response to the Diversion:
Jetstar, in a statement, explained that flight JQ979 was diverted to Townsville due to severe weather conditions, where it was refueled before continuing to Cairns.
Impact on Christmas Travel and Future Outlook:
The indefinite closure of Cairns Airport, just a week before Christmas, has disrupted the travel plans of thousands of Australians, leading to cancellations and delays. The situation at the airport mirrors the broader impact of ex-tropical cyclone Jasper on the region, underscoring the severity of the weather emergency and its consequences for holiday travelers.