Flights have been cancelled at London Heathrow in preparation for snowfall that could cause major disruption this afternoon.
The airport said airlines have preemptively cancelled 80 departures and arrivals from 3pm.
It sent out a warning on Twitter earlier today urging passengers to check with their airlines for adjusted schedules or cancellations.
Good morning. Wintery weather is expected at the airport today and airlines will be adjusting their schedules as a result. 1/2
— Heathrow Airport (@HeathrowAirport) January 12, 2017
Check your flight status if travelling and allow more time to get to the airport. We are sorry for any disruption. 2/2
— Heathrow Airport (@HeathrowAirport) January 12, 2017
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for snow for much of the UK including the south east where the airport is based.
However, other airports including Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast International and Belfast City airports are operating as normal with no reported disruption.
But unlike other airports Heathrow has two runways running at full capacity therefore there is no room to reschedule flights that are disrupted by weather.
A spokesman said: ”The latest forecast is for snow this afternoon, which will reduce the number of aircraft able to take off and land each hour.
‘Alongside our airline partners and NATS, we have taken the decision to reduce the flight schedule on Thursday, to allow airlines to rebook passengers onto un-allocated seats ahead of time where possible.
‘We advise passengers to check their flight status with their airline before coming to the airport. We apologise to those whose travel has been affected.’
