- Severe winds disrupt air travel across Crete.
- Flights to and from Heraklion Airport face cancellations.
- The airport struggles with wind speeds reaching 40 knots.
- Travellers are advised to check schedules, as disruptions may continue.
- Adverse weather conditions are predicted to last until Thursday morning.
A Blustery Mess at Heraklion Airport
Travelling to Crete this week? The weather had other ideas. On Wednesday, flights to and from Heraklion were thrown into turmoil as powerful southern winds transformed the airport into a setting of a meteorological horror story. Aircraft either remained grounded or danced dangerously close to turbulence, with wind pressures clocking in at 32 to 40 knots. Spoiler alert: planes and gale-force gusts don’t get along.
By mid-morning, cancelled flights started to pile up. Two journeys out of Athens never made it to Heraklion, while one departing from Heraklion for Thessaloniki didn’t happen. For the hopeful travellers stuck going nowhere, this was more than just a cancelled dream of tzatziki and sea views—it was a logistical headache that rivalled the worst airport delays.
Strong Winds, Stronger Headaches
By the time despair spread across departure lounges, the airport’s staff, led by Heraklion’s airport manager, confirmed the complete list of ruined itineraries: two inbound flights from Athens were scrapped, along with two return legs to the capital, not to mention additional routes to Thessaloniki. With meteorologists warning of continued gusts sweeping through the region until Thursday morning, travellers are bracing themselves for further disruption. It’s strongly advised to double-check flight updates and hold off on celebratory toasts until one’s feet are on Cretan soil.
Highlights of the Disruptions:
- Flights affected:
- Two flights from Athens to Heraklion were cancelled.
- Two flights from Heraklion to Athens were cancelled.
- Two Heraklion-to-Thessaloniki flights were also called off.
- Wind speeds: Gusts measuring 32 to 40 knots caused unsafe flying conditions.
- Duration: Adverse weather is expected to continue through Thursday morning.
For those determined to reach Heraklion, where Greek history and a healthy dose of the sun usually await, these winds are more than unpleasant—they’re a stark reminder that nature ultimately flies first class. Adjust plans accordingly—or risk an unplanned detour into the joys of an airport chair nap.
