Munich Airport Prepares for Storm ‘Elli’ and Icy Conditions
Munich, January 10 – Storm ‘Elli’ is expected to bring hazardous weather to Bavaria, with freezing rain and ice posing significant risks across the region. While Munich Airport maintains normal operations, passengers should be prepared for possible delays and cancellations.
Weather Alert Issued for Bavaria
The German Weather Service has issued an severe weather warning for Bavaria as Storm ‘Elli’ approaches. The storm, anticipated to hit on Thursday evening, will bring milder Atlantic air, transforming persistent snowfall into rain. This rain, falling on already frozen ground, is expected to create treacherous black ice conditions. Disruptions to rail and road traffic are widely anticipated.
Munich Airport Operations Amidst the Storm
Despite the challenging forecast, Munich Airport states it is well-prepared. Robert Wilhelm, a spokesperson for the airport, confirmed on Thursday evening, “The winter service at Munich Airport is well-equipped and prepared. All winter service employees are on-site in shifts to prepare surfaces as needed and clear them of snow and ice to maintain flight operations.” He added that de-icing agents are in ample supply.
Several measures are automatically implemented at the airport during snowfall or freezing rain:
- Runways are cleared alternately, ensuring at least one runway remains available for flight operations.
- All aircraft must be de-iced before takeoff for safety reasons.
- Due to poor visibility, German Air Traffic Control reduces runway capacity for takeoffs and landings.
Potential for Delays and Cancellations
Wilhelm noted that such weather conditions often lead to delays or cancellations at other airports, which can have a ripple effect on Munich’s operations. While the situation at Munich Airport was described as “normal” as of Thursday evening, passengers are advised to monitor their flight status closely.
Update: Friday Morning Operations
As of Friday morning, January 9, operations at Munich Airport are largely normal. Only one Lufthansa connection to Hamburg (LH 2060), scheduled for 10:00 AM, has been cancelled. Hamburg Airport had issued warnings about restrictions on Thursday evening. No further cancellations are currently reported for Munich for the rest of the day.
Impact on Passengers and Travel
Travelers planning to fly from or to Munich Airport in the coming days are strongly advised to check with their airlines for the latest flight information before heading to the airport. The dangerous weather conditions could lead to further disruptions, and staying informed is crucial for a smooth travel experience.
Source: merkur.de
