Passengers at Manchester Airport have been hit by travel chaos with a “major power cut” leading to a “significant” number of flight cancelations.
Terminals 1 and 2 have been brought to a standstill, with thousands waiting to check in and go through border security.
The power cut is expected to cause disruption for a number of hours.
A spokesperson said: “Manchester Airport was affected by a major power cut in the area earlier this morning.
“This has caused widespread disruption, particularly in Terminals 1 and 2.
“A significant number of flights are expected to be delayed or cancelled.
“Passengers due to travel from Terminals 1 or 2 today are advised to contact their airlines for up-to-date information before coming to the airport.
“Passengers due to travel from Terminal 3 should come to the airport as normal unless advised otherwise but could be affected by delays.
Thousands of customers have been left stranded due to the disruption
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Customers travelling from terminals 1 and 2 have been urged not to travel
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“We apologise for any inconvenience and aim to restore normal service as soon as possible.”
Manchester Airport is the third busiest in the UK, serving more than two million passengers every month.
One person at the airport wrote on social media: Power outage at Manchester Airport this morning and it’s chaos. Hundreds queuing for check in and security.”
Another person who was stuck upon arrival said: “‘Site wide power outage’ at Manchester airport at 3am… immigration is stood still whilst flights pour in.”
A third said: “Chaos at Manchester airport after power outage 2 hours stood outside the terminal with no idea if we are departing today or not.”
Images from the airport terminals show long queues with some people left in complete darkness.
The disruption is anticipated to last for several hours
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The power cut occurred at approximately 1.30am this morning.
Airline easyJet, which operates flights from terminal one, said there are “very long queues” for security and disruption to hold bag processing, meaning passengers can only board flights with cabin luggage.
It said: “Although outside of our control, we would like to apologise for any inconvenience experienced as a result.
“We are doing all we can and working closely with the airport team to minimise the disruption.”