NSW: Dust storm cripples Sydney Airport
Wed Sep 23 13:28:04 EST 2009
Wed Sep 23 03:28:04 UTC 2009
Eds: Adds Jetstar comment
SYDNEY, Sept 23 AAP - Sydney Airport remains crippled by the dust storm engulfing Sydney and much of NSW.
Long delays to domestic and international flights began on Wednesday morning when high winds and dust hit Sydney just before daybreak.
All flights have been impacted, an airport spokesman said in a statement, with delays expected to continue through most of Wednesday.
Qantas international flights bound for Sydney have been diverted to Brisbane and Melbourne, the airline said in a statement.
Domestic Qantas services have recommenced but outbound flights will continue to experience severe delays.
"We encourage any passengers with non-essential travel arrangements to reconsider their travel plans for the day," Qantas said.
"Passengers wishing to cancel their flights today (domestic only) will be offered a refund or the opportunity to change their booking without penalty."
Jetstar said a number of flights arriving and departing Sydney and Newcastle airports had been delayed or cancelled.
"As a result of the adverse weather conditions Jetstar is offering full flexibility for affected customers for the immediate period up to Friday 25 September 2009, including the ability to move their flight free of charge or to receive a refund," it said in a statement.
Domestic services are expected to resume shortly, but severe ongoing delays are expected for Jetstar domestic and international services.
