A fierce winter blast has paralysed travel networks across the United Kingdom and Europe, leading to the cancellation of hundreds of flights and train services. The heavy snowfall and icy conditions that marked the start of 2026 have caused severe operational and safety issues for transport operators.
Major Airport Disruptions Across the Continent
The travel chaos is widespread, affecting key international hubs. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport has been particularly hard hit, cancelling more than 700 flights, predominantly on European routes. The airport authority mandated a 70% reduction in services for January 7, warning of "very limited" operations and advising passengers not to travel to the airport unless their flight is confirmed. It is estimated that over 1,000 people were forced to spend Tuesday night at the terminal.
In France, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports issued warnings forecasting snow for January 7, alerting travellers to expect significant delays and cancellations. They also cautioned that road access to the airports could be problematic.
Within the UK, Liverpool John Lennon Airport faced severe issues, having to temporarily close its runway due to snow and ice. Although it has since reopened, officials warn that flights remain "subject to delay or cancellation." Aberdeen Airport is urging passengers to check their flight status and travel carefully to the terminal as teams work to clear snow.
Rail Networks Struggling with Snow and Ice
The rail network has not been spared from the winter onslaught. LNER previously warned it could not guarantee any service between Edinburgh and Aberdeen until January 9 at the earliest due to heavy snowfall. While services are now returning to normal, delays and alterations persist on this route.
In Scotland, ScotRail was forced to close lines to Aberdeen and between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh. Although National Rail reports the "vast majority" of Scotland's railway is open again, deep snow continues to cause challenges on some northern routes.
National Rail has issued a blanket warning that services across England, Wales, and Scotland may be affected by snow, ice, and the approaching Storm Goretti, with impacts likely on January 8 and 9. Similarly, Merseyrail has advised customers that low temperatures may affect journeys.
Passenger Rights During Cancellations
For those impacted, it is crucial to understand your rights. Airlines based in the UK and EU are legally obligated to care for passengers facing significant delays or cancellations. This duty of care includes providing meals, refreshments, hotel accommodation if an overnight stay is necessary, and transport between the airport and the hotel.
Passengers are also entitled to communication facilities, such as phone calls or emails. Compensation or re-routing depends on the circumstances of the cancellation. It is always advisable to keep receipts for any necessary expenses to claim back from the airline later, though only "reasonable" costs will be covered.
Eligibility for refreshments and care kicks in after a delay of two hours for short-haul flights (under 1,500km), three hours for medium-haul flights (1,500-3,500km), and four hours for long-haul flights (over 3,500km). All travellers are strongly urged to check their flight or train status directly with their operator before setting out on any journey.
