- Flight Disruptions
- Heavy Snowstorm Causes Major Flight Disruptions in Paris and Amsterdam
Heavy Snowstorm Causes Major Flight Disruptions in Paris and Amsterdam
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By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on 6 January 2026
450
Affected flights
2
Affected airports
450
Affected flights
2
Affected airports
What Happened
The recent January 2026 snowstorm blanketing Paris and Amsterdam, has disrupted travel and caused significant airport disruptions. Severe weather led to over 450 flight cancellations and delays, affecting passengers' travel plans.
Flight Disruption Details
The current snow covering Paris and Amsterdam has resulted in major disruptions at local airports. The January 2026 snowy winter weather led to over 450 flight cancellations as well as additional delays of flights.
Airport operations in both cities were heavily impacted, with runways closed and numerous flights unable to depart or land as scheduled. Local authorities have advised against non-essential travel, and passengers flying soon are advised to follow instructions from their airline regarding their flight.
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
Delays and Cancellations
Cause
Weather issue
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Not eligible for compensation
Flights affected
450
Airports affected
Paris Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam Schipol
Checked by
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated
6 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.
