Since midnight strong winds have further complicated landing and take-off conditions at Madeira’s International Airport, with the cancellation of 42 arrivals and 37 departure flights, as well as 4 diversions, affecting around 19,000 passengers.
Throughout the day, only nine aircraft managed to land at Madeira – Cristiano Ronaldo Airport, seven of which by 12:10.
According to the ANA website, the weather is expected to impact tomorrow’s flights, and passengers are advised to check the status of their flight before travelling to the airport.
As part of their management structure, and with the large influx of passengers the airport administration activated one of their emergency plans to alleviate passenger discomfort, as many had to wait hours for alternative accommodation to be allocated to them or make alternative flight arrangements.
ANA’s “care team,” today debuted its new volunteer service – Casa do Voluntário, and its new passenger support service, which provided information support teams, access to rest spaces, and food areas.
Free bottles of water, bananas, some snacks, and delicacies were distributed to youngsters. While ANA provided additional seating.
Local newspaper, JM, later confirmed that as part of ANA’s contingency plan, and for passengers unable to find alternative accommodation or needed to remain at the airport, mattresses were provided.
The captaincy of the Port of Funchal today extended the strong wind warning for the coast of Madeira, issued on Monday, until 06:00 on Wednesday.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
