153 Flights Canceled and 18 Diverted at Barcelona Airport Due to Severe Weather

Key Points

1. Extreme weather has led to 153 flight cancellations at Barcelona Airport.
2. Approximately 18 flights have been rerouted to other airports like Faro and Jerez.
3. Flooding has severely impacted airport operations, causing significant disruptions.

Severe weather in Barcelona has resulted in the cancellation of up to 153 flights at the city’s airport, with another 18 flights diverted as conditions continue to worsen. Heavy floods that began days ago have caused 217 casualties, and the search for additional victims is ongoing. Authorities have strongly advised against non-essential travel.

Residents have also been warned to stay away from rivers and flood drains, as Barcelona Airport remains inundated with water, severely limiting normal operations.

Valencia province has been especially impacted due to delayed warnings about the severe weather, causing frustration among residents. In a recent visit to Paiporta, flood-affected locals expressed their anger by throwing mud at Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.

Travellers Advised to Check Flight Status Frequently

Spain’s airport operator, Aena, recommends that travelers check their flight status regularly as cancellations and diversions increase. Water intrusion into airport terminals and runways is making it difficult to resume regular operations.

In a recent update, Aena reported, "Of the 945 commercial operations scheduled for today, 153 have been cancelled." So far, 18 flights have been diverted, including:

- Flights from Bilbao, Paris, and Vienna diverted to Jerez.
- Flights from Gran Canaria and Vienna diverted to Faro.
- Flights from Bergamo and Frankfurt rerouted to Malaga-Costa del Sol.
- A flight from Istanbul diverted to AS Madrid-Barajas.

Importance of Travel Insurance in Emergencies

Travel insurance is highly recommended for international travel, offering protection against unexpected expenses, especially in cases like natural disasters. Schengen visa insurance, for instance, requires coverage up to €30,000 and must be valid across all Schengen Area countries, including Spain, covering hospital and medical evacuation costs if needed.