- Flight Disruptions
- Arctic Cold and Snowstorm Causes Major Flight Groundings and Cancellations Across Multiple European Airports
Arctic Cold and Snowstorm Causes Major Flight Groundings and Cancellations Across Multiple European Airports
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By Josh Arnfield
Last updated on 13 January 2026
What Happened
A brutal Arctic cold snap and intense snowstorm have caused widespread flight groundings and cancellations at major European airports, including Paris Charles de Gaulle, Orly, Amsterdam Schiphol, Heathrow, and East Midlands. The weather disruption has significantly impacted winter air travel, with ongoing delays and possible additional cancellations. No information is available regarding affected airlines, the precise number of flights or passengers affected, or the expected end date for this disruption.
Flight Disruption Details
An Arctic freeze combined with a severe snowstorm has triggered major flight groundings and cancellations at several key European airports. Impacted airports include Paris Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, Amsterdam Schiphol, London Heathrow, and East Midlands. The disruption is attributed to extreme winter weather conditions that have hampered normal operations and caused substantial travel challenges for passengers.
Winter air travel remains significantly disrupted, with many flights grounded or canceled due to the hazardous conditions. The situation is ongoing; travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights.
At present, specific information about affected airlines, individual flight numbers, the total number of flights, or passengers affected has not been disclosed. Likewise, no definite timeline is available for when operations are expected to return to normal.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour. No compensation when a disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances, as this appears to be.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Cancellation
Cause
Weather issue
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Not eligible for compensation
Airports affected
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris Orly Airport, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, London Heathrow Airport, East Midlands Airport
Checked by
Josh Arnfield
Date updated
13 January 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Collect proof that your flight was canceled, e.g. boarding pass, vouchers and any other travel documents.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the cancellation and reasons behind it.
Request an alternate flight to your destination - or a refund.
Make a note of the arrival time at your destination.
Ask the airline to pay for your meals and refreshments.
Don't sign anything or accept any offers that may waive your rights.
Get the airline to provide you with a hotel room, if needed.
Keep your receipts if your canceled flight ends up costing you extra money.
