Will Thousands of Tourists Be Stranded in Lapland Due to Frozen Flights?

Thousands of tourists are currently stranded in Finland's Lapland due to a severe cold spell, which has led to the cancellation of flights from Kittila airport, affecting travellers heading to major cities like London and Manchester. With temperatures plunging to -39°C, the situation is expected to persist as maintenance and de-icing operations become increasingly difficult under such extreme conditions.

Last updated: 12 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The ongoing cold spell in Lapland has caused significant disruption for tourists eager to return home. Kittila airport has been heavily impacted, with all flights cancelled on Sunday due to temperatures that remained below -35°C. Forecasts indicate that conditions will worsen on Monday, with lows of -39°C expected, further complicating the situation as airport operators struggle with de-icing and maintenance challenges. The extreme cold has also affected road safety, with reports of icy conditions leading to accidents, including a bus incident involving Ukrainian passengers.

Key takeaways

• Temperatures in Lapland have dropped to -39°C, disrupting air travel.
• Kittila airport has cancelled all flights, affecting thousands of tourists.
• Hazardous icy road conditions have led to accidents in the region.

Timeline: how we got here

The extreme weather conditions in Lapland have developed over several days, with the following key events:

• Friday, 10 November 2023: Initial flight cancellations at Kittila airport due to extreme cold.
• Saturday, 11 November 2023: Continued cancellations led to increased travel disruption for tourists.
• Sunday, 12 November 2023: All flights from Kittila airport were cancelled as temperatures dropped to -35°C, with forecasts predicting further drops.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The most pressing development is the forecasted temperature drop to -39°C on Monday, which is expected to exacerbate the already difficult situation at Kittila airport. Additionally, road conditions have worsened, prompting warnings from local authorities regarding safety.

What was already established

Prior to this week, Finnish Lapland had been experiencing winter temperatures typical for the region, usually averaging around -14°C. However, severe cold snaps can occur, with recent events marking an unusual drop in temperatures, leading to significant travel disruptions.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The disruption in Lapland affects thousands of UK tourists who may be stranded without immediate options for returning home. This could lead to increased accommodation costs and uncertainty for those trying to rearrange their travel plans.

Businesses and jobs

Tourism-dependent businesses in Lapland, especially those catering to winter sports and experiences such as the Northern Lights, may suffer financial losses due to the cancellation of flights and the inability of tourists to reach their destinations.

Policy and regulation

In light of the extreme weather, local authorities and airport operators like Finavia may need to take additional measures to ensure passenger safety and manage logistics during severe weather events. This includes reviewing winter preparedness plans and coordinating with airlines for future contingencies.

Numbers that matter

• -39°C: Predicted low temperature for Monday, 13 November 2023.
• 100,000: Homes reportedly without power in France due to the storm affecting northern Europe.
• Thousands: Tourists stranded at Kittila airport awaiting flight rescheduling.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Kittila airport: A primary airport in Finnish Lapland, serving tourists primarily visiting ski resorts.
• De-ice: The process of removing ice from aircraft to ensure safe takeoff and landing.
• Finavia: The airport operator responsible for managing airports in Finland.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Travellers should remain informed about weather forecasts and any updates from airlines regarding flight cancellations and rescheduling. Plans may need to be adjusted based on ongoing conditions in Lapland.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As winter progresses, travellers should consider travel insurance options that cover extreme weather events to safeguard against future disruptions. Keeping abreast of winter travel advisories will also be crucial.

Signals to watch

• Weather forecasts for Lapland, particularly temperature drops and snow accumulation.
• Updates from Kittila and Rovaniemi airports regarding flight schedules.
• Local safety advisories from Fintraffic concerning road conditions.

Practical guidance

Do

• Check with airlines for the latest flight information and options for rebooking.
• Maintain communication with accommodation providers about your status and potential changes.

Don’t

• Do not travel to the airport unless advised, as conditions may worsen.
• Avoid unnecessary travel in icy conditions, prioritising safety.

Checklist

• Confirm your flight status regularly.
• Have a backup accommodation plan if stranded.
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
• Monitor local news for updates on weather and travel conditions.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation in Lapland remains fluid, with potential for further cancellations and disruptions as forecasted temperatures are subject to change. Individuals should be cautious and prepared for unexpected developments, particularly regarding road safety and travel plans.

Bottom line

The severe cold spell affecting Lapland has left thousands of tourists stranded as flights are cancelled due to extreme temperatures. Travellers should remain vigilant and adaptable, monitoring updates and preparing for potential delays in their return home.

FAQs

What should I do if my flight is cancelled due to extreme cold?

If your flight is cancelled, contact your airline for rebooking options and check your travel insurance for coverage regarding cancellations.

How long is the cold spell expected to last in Lapland?

While the current forecast indicates extreme cold continuing for at least a few days, conditions can change rapidly, so it's advisable to keep informed through reliable weather updates.

Are there any safety precautions I should take while travelling in icy conditions?

Yes, it's crucial to drive cautiously, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay informed about local road conditions to ensure safety in icy weather.