Storms Cause Major Disruption at El Prat Airport
Severe storms across Catalonia on Saturday 3 October 2026 have severely disrupted operations at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, leading to the cancellation of over 200 flights and delays of up to four hours. According to data released just before 21:00 by Transit Aeri de Catalunya, El Prat was experiencing an average delay of more than one hour, making it the most disrupted airport in the world at that time. Air traffic controllers described the day as "very complicated due to the storms", with adverse weather forcing aircraft to be spaced further apart, reducing the number of take-offs and landings.
Flights Continue Amid Schedule Changes
Despite the chaos, air traffic has not been completely halted. Flights continue to operate, though with significant alterations to schedules. The storms have affected not only various regions of Catalonia but also the maritime area near Barcelona, necessitating the reorganisation of flight paths and adjustments to planned departure and arrival times. Some pilots departing from El Prat on Saturday reported delays exceeding four hours due to successive air traffic readjustments.
The meteorological conditions have forced air traffic to be spaced out, consequently reducing the number of operations.
Controllers issued a public message of support to airport staff, passengers, and flight crews, acknowledging the difficult conditions caused by the storm.
Passenger Rights During Disruption
Passengers affected by cancellations are entitled to choose between a full refund, re-routing as soon as possible, or a later flight at a convenient time, according to European regulations. For delays, assistance such as food, drink, and communication is provided depending on the length of wait and flight distance. If travel is postponed overnight, airlines must also offer hotel accommodation and transport to and from the airport. Further information on passenger rights is available via the Spanish Aviation Safety and Security Agency (AESA) website.
Reported by elperiodico.com, democrata.es, elmundo.es, Vilapress, metropoliabierta.elespanol.com, POMBAPRESS SL, VilaWeb Feed, El Periódico Barcelona.
