Istanbul snowstorm: 200 flights to be cancelled as airports take precautionary measures

Flights at Istanbul’s airports are facing cancellations as a heavy snowstorm and risk of ice formation are expected to hit the city from February 19 to 21. 

A meeting of the Crisis Committee for Meteorological Emergencies was held at Istanbul and Sabiha Gökçen Airports, where necessary precautionary measures were discussed, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, it was revealed that several flights have already been cancelled, with more expected in the coming days. The statement outlined a 15% reduction in the capacity of Istanbul Airport on February 19 and a 20% reduction on February 21.

"Turkish Airlines typically operates around 1,000 flights per day," the Ministry confirmed. "With the cancellations in place, it is anticipated that around 150 flights will be cancelled on 19th February, and approximately 200 flights on February 21. These figures will be updated according to current and evolving weather conditions."

However, it was clarified that there would be no need for cancellations at Sabiha Gökçen Airport on 19th February. Flights scheduled for February 20 were reviewed, and a precautionary decision was made to cancel 10% of all daytime flights.

The situation remains fluid, and both airports are closely monitoring the developing weather conditions. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for further updates.

By Aghakazim Guliyev