ON June 23, 2024 travellers faced delays and disruptions due to a power outage at Manchester airport, which temporarily affected terminal operations and caused inconvenience for passengers and staff alike.
Despite the challenges, airport personnel worked swiftly to restore normalcy and ensure the safety and comfort of all travellers.
Here’s what we know about the technical incident which has affected Jet2, EasyJet and TUI flights.
What happened at Manchester airport?
Manchester airport was hit by a power cut on Sunday June 23, 2024.
A spokesperson said: “Manchester Airport was affected by a major power cut in the area earlier this morning.”
The power outage affected Terminal 1 and 2.
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Ian Ellison, 42, told The Sun arriving at the airport early this morning was “absolute chaos” after their flight was stuck on the tarmac for two hours.
It just seemed like there was no one from Manchester Airport Group there, it looked like the people from the airlines were trying to organise it… you could see the airlines were struggling.
Ian Ellison
He said: “The captain on the plane said he’s never experienced something like that.”
Around 5am passengers were able to catch a bus to Terminal 2 and Ian described the chaos inside the terminal “like a minefield”.
Ian said: “Bags were absolutely everywhere with nobody to tell us which belt was where… it was utter chaos.
“When I walked past the Jet2 desk there were people kicking off… they were quoted five hour delays.
“It just seemed like there was no one from Manchester Airport Group there, it looked like the people from the airlines were trying to organise it… you could see the airlines were struggling.”
Around 7.45am the airport said the power was running again but travellers should expect delays.
Manchester Airport statement
A Manchester Airport spokesperson said: “Manchester Airport was affected by a major power cut in the area earlier this morning.
“Power has been restored but the outage affected important systems, including the processing of boarding cards and baggage screening, which has caused significant delays, particularly in Terminals 1 and 2.
“All flights from Terminals 1 and 2 are being cancelled until further notice and passengers due to travel from those terminals are advised not to come to the airport and to stay in touch with their airlines.
“Flights due to fly from Terminal 3 should come to the airport as normal unless advised otherwise by their airline but could be affected by delays.
“Flights for those passengers already checked-in are departing but are subject to delays.
The disruption means some baggage may not be on those flights. We will work with airlines and handling partners to reunite affected passengers with their luggage as soon as possible.
“Some arriving flights are being diverted to other airports meaning people due to pick passengers up from the airport should check before setting out.
“We apologise for any inconvenience and aim to restore normal service as soon as possible.”
How has the power cut affected Manchester airport?
The outage caused delays and cancellations for several flights, impacting both departures and arrivals.
Passengers have been advised to check with their airlines for the latest information and to anticipate longer wait times at the airport.
A Manchester Airport spokesperson said: “Power has been restored but the outage affected important systems, including the processing of boarding cards and baggage screening, which has caused significant delays.”
“All flights from Terminals 1 and 2 are being cancelled until further notice and passengers due to travel from those terminals are advised not to come to the airport and to stay in touch with their airlines.
“Flights due to fly from Terminal 3 should come to the airport as normal unless advised otherwise by their airline but could be affected by delays.
“Flights for those passengers already checked-in are departing but are subject to delays.
“The disruption means some baggage may not be on those flights.
“We will work with airlines and handling partners to reunite affected passengers with their luggage as soon as possible.
“Some arriving flights are being diverted to other airports meaning people due to pick passengers up from the airport should check before setting out.
“We apologise for any inconvenience and aim to restore normal service as soon as possible.”
Will flights be operating at Manchester airport?
Flights are operating at Manchester airport.
However, they are severely delayed and travellers are advised to check online ahead of their journey if their flight is affected.
Which flights are affected at Manchester airport?
Flights going from Terminal 1 and 2 have been cancelled in the morning.
Terminal 3 flights were delayed and customers were advised to expect long waiting times.
How to claim compensation
Under UK law, airlines must compensate passengers if their flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If your flight to or from the UK is cancelled, the airline must offer you a choice between a refund or an alternative flight.
- Unused ticket refund: You can get a refund for the unused portion of your ticket. For instance, if the outbound leg of a return flight is cancelled, you can receive a full refund for the entire return ticket.
- Alternative flights: If travel is essential, the airline must arrange an alternative flight, even if it means booking you with another airline.
Flight compensation rules
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of the “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.