Home » TRAVEL NEWS UPDATES » Widespread Travel Disruptions Hit Spain, Turkey, and Europe as Storm Alice Forces Flight Delays and Cancellations – Here’s What You Need to Know
Published on
October 13, 2025
On Sunday, October 12, 2025, travelers across Europe faced major disruptions, as Storm Alice caused significant delays and cancellations of flights, particularly in popular destinations like Spain, Turkey, and Switzerland. This sudden weather crisis, affecting hundreds of flights, left many passengers stranded or facing long waits at airports. The storm’s effects have rippled through major airlines including Ryanair, Vueling, and Jet2, with Newcastle International Airport also experiencing a series of delays. As of now, the full impact of the storm remains unclear, though reports indicate that heavy rains and red weather alerts in Spain played a pivotal role in the chaos. Travelers are urged to stay updated on their flight statuses and adjust their plans accordingly.
Europe Faces Widespread Disruption
Europe saw a wave of travel interruptions on Sunday, October 12, as Storm Alice wreaked havoc, particularly in Spain, Turkey, and Switzerland. The storm led to 140 flight cancellations and nearly 2,900 delays, mainly affecting holidaymakers heading to popular tourist destinations. According to sources, airlines like Ryanair, Vueling, and Pegasus were among the hardest hit, with delays reaching several hours in some cases.
The worst-hit areas were Spain and Turkey, where airports saw a large volume of cancellations. Weather warnings, especially in parts of Spain, forced the closure of several air routes and rerouted numerous flights. This caused a ripple effect across Europe, with delays impacting flights to and from other nations.
Impact on Flights to and from Newcastle International Airport
The storm’s disruption was also felt at Newcastle International Airport. Several flights scheduled to arrive and depart from this airport were either delayed or rerouted. A TUI flight from Malaga, originally due at 1:10 PM, was postponed until at least 3:30 PM. Another TUI flight from Palma was expected after 4 PM, a full hour behind schedule.
Other delays included Jet2, which faced a 45-minute setback for its flight to Dalaman, Turkey, and an easyJet flight from Paris, delayed by nearly an hour. The delays and cancellations added to the already stressful experience for many travelers.
Why Were Flights Affected?
The primary reason for the widespread disruption appears to be Storm Alice, which brought torrential rain to large parts of Spain and surrounding areas. Red weather alerts issued in parts of Spain forced evacuations and restricted unnecessary travel. These extreme weather conditions grounded flights and caused several to be rerouted to other airports, exacerbating delays.
Although the full scope of the storm’s effects is still being assessed, it’s clear that weather-related disruptions played a major role in the travel chaos. The storm caused significant turbulence in regions that were already heavily booked with travelers, many heading to holiday destinations in Southern Europe.
What Should Travelers Do?
For those planning to travel in the coming days, there are a few key steps to minimize disruptions and ensure smoother travel experiences:
- Check Flight Status Regularly: Before heading to the airport, travelers should check for any updates from their airline, particularly regarding delays or cancellations.
- Consider Alternative Routes: With significant disruptions at major European airports, consider alternative travel options or rerouting if possible.
- Stay Updated on Weather Alerts: Travelers should monitor weather conditions and storm warnings, particularly in Southern Europe, where Storm Alice and similar systems can cause sudden disruptions.
- Allow Extra Time: Even if your flight is not delayed, travel times may be longer due to increased congestion at airports. Plan for extra time to navigate security checks and airport queues.
- Know Your Rights: If your flight is canceled or delayed, be aware of your rights to compensation or rebooking through your airline. Most airlines offer support for affected passengers, including accommodation and meals in extreme cases.
Other Major Affected Destinations
Apart from Spain and Turkey, other popular European holiday destinations were affected by Storm Alice and subsequent flight delays. Switzerland, France, and Greece also reported a high volume of disruptions as a result of the storm’s unpredictable movements.
As airports scrambled to handle rerouted flights and manage delays, passengers at major airports like Barcelona, Istanbul, and Zurich experienced long waiting times. Many airlines, including SAS and Air Iceland, reported difficulties managing their flight schedules.
The Bigger Picture: How Weather Affects European Travel
The ongoing effects of Storm Alice raise broader questions about how weather can significantly impact the travel industry, especially during peak holiday seasons. Europe’s busiest airports, like Madrid, London, and Rome, are often at the mercy of changing weather patterns that disrupt hundreds of flights every year. Travelers need to stay informed about potential risks, especially during the fall and winter months, when storms and heavy rainfall become more frequent.
Final Thoughts
The travel disruption across Europe on October 12, caused by Storm Alice, serves as a reminder of how unpredictable weather can significantly affect travel plans. Travelers should remain patient and proactive in monitoring updates from airlines and airports. Spain, Turkey, and other popular destinations are likely to remain vulnerable to disruptions until the storm clears.
As travelers adjust to this evolving situation, it’s essential to stay flexible and keep communication lines open with airlines for any updates regarding flight cancellations or delays. Staying informed and prepared is key to minimizing inconvenience during these turbulent times.
