Flights from Ireland to UK cancelled
Around 20 flights out of Ireland to the United Kingdom were cancelled today after security forces there foiled a major terrorist plot to blow-up aircraft bound for the US.
Aer Lingus confirmed 10 flights had been cancelled so far, while it is believed more than a dozen Ryanair flights have been delayed or cancelled.
The worst affected were services from Dublin to the three main London airports, Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted.
Dermot Mannion, Aer Lingus chief executive, said non-essential air travel should be cancelled.
“What we are saying to passengers at the moment that the sensible option really is that unless travel to any point in the UK is essential today it's perhaps better to stay at home,” he told RTÉ Radio.
Updates will be posted on the airline’s website, www.aerlingus.com, throughout the day.
A Dublin Airport Authority spokeswoman urged passengers to contact airlines before leaving for the airport.
“Flight delays are expected as a result of the security situation at London Heathrow and into all UK airports,” she said.
“We would ask passengers to contact individual airlines regarding their specific flights before departing for the airport.”
In a message on its website Ryanair warned passengers delays and disruptions would occur and recommended all passengers allow extra time to get to the airport and clear security.
Travellers are only being allowed to take a limited number of items on board by hand, in a single, ideally transparent, plastic carrier bag and nothing may be carried in pockets.
No electrical or battery-powered items including laptops, mobile phones, iPods and remote controls may be carried in the cabin and they must be checked in as hold baggage.
British Airways said any of its passengers who failed to comply with the restrictions on luggage and other items would not be allowed on its planes.
A spokesman said: “Customers are advised to check in as normal but to expect delays at all UK airports.”
