Chaos at Schiphol Airport as storm causes flight cancellations

Schiphol Airport has advised passengers to prepare for delays and cancellations, due to ongoing weather conditions and severe winds caused by storm Darragh.

So far, more than 100 flights have been cancelled after severe winds grounded planes this morning, and more could be expected during the afternoon, depending on how the weather develops.

Schiphol Airport advises to expect delays

The airport’s website currently shows most upcoming departures as either cancelled or delayed by at least one hour and the airport says to “take delays and cancellations into account”.

Dutch airline KLM, which operates more planes from the Schiphol airport than anywhere else, has already cancelled more than 90 flights.

Even if your flight is scheduled to depart or land, you may have difficulties reaching the airport as the storm is affecting roads and rail networks too.

The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute warns of debris blown around and fallen trees, caused by strong wind gusts of 75-90 km/h.

To reach the airport, you can also expect detours due to a junction on the A10 south motorway being closed until Monday morning.

Will you get a refund if you decide not to take your flight?

Travel insurance is designed to cover unforeseen events, such as emergency medical expenses, lost or stolen belongings and last-minute cancellations.

In some cases, you can be reimbursed if your trip is cancelled due to extreme weather – but certain conditions usually apply.

Check your policy for a list of covered reasons for trip cancellation, as these vary by provider. Some may provide add-ons for weather-related circumstances.

Simon McCulloch from Staysure travel insurance says: “The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance, advising travellers to stay informed of local conditions and to follow the advice of local authorities.

However, at this stage, there is no advice against travel to Spain, so if you decide to cancel your trip, it’s unlikely you’ll receive a refund from your holiday provider or from your insurer. We therefore recommend contacting your holiday provider to explore the available options.”

If your trip is cancelled by your airline or travel provider due to weather related events, you will likely be offered compensation and a replacement trip or refund.