Flights Delayed by Fog and Wet Weather

This week flights were delayed after low cloud and fog disrupted the scheduled flights in and out of Norfolk Island on Monday and Tuesday. On Sunday evening there was very heavy rain, in addition to the heavy down pours last Friday, over 170mm has fallen during half a week and some areas of the island had recorded 120mm – 130mm rain on Friday and then again on Sunday night. So once again December rain fall is breaking weather records like previous months

of 2022.

The Air Chathams Monday 5 December flights were delayed to Tuesday, but due to the inclement weather on the 6 December, the flight was cancelled, and the passengers were rescheduled onto the Thursday 8 December flight.

Monday 6 December Qantas Sydney flight was unable to land and returned to Brisbane and they stayed overnight, and the new rescheduled flight to Norfolk Island was organised to arrive around 6pm on Tuesday. Luckily the clouds lifted a little and the plane was able to land, much to the delight of the travellers. I have heard that the passengers clapped when the plane landed in Norfolk Island, some pleased to get home and others excited to be able to start their Norfolk Island holiday and adventures.

With the low cloud and foggy conditions on Tuesday, the Qantas Brisbane flight QF183/184 which arrived around 3pm, was not able to land. The misty fog was so low, the tops of the trees were out of sight as the cloud covered them, making it too dangerous for landing. I took photographs of the valleys and view from town and the airport. I was not surprised the plane turned back to Brisbane and these passengers were rescheduled to return on Wednesday morning, and it was great to see the weather had improved the next day.

The message from the airlines stated:

“As these delays are due to weather, all expenses incurred will be at the passenger’s expense. Qantas wishes to apologize for any inconvenience these delays have caused.” Letters were supplied for those wishing to make travel insurance claims.

Thank you to all the staff for assisting with the travellers, organising extended accommodation, meals and I am sure there were many phone calls to reschedule connecting flights and transport in Australia and New Zealand.

It is always important to remember when travelling to carry your international passport, additional medication if needed, plus I have always been told to keep these in hand-luggage along with underwear or other important personal items in case bags are unloaded to allow for additional fuel in bad weather.

I am pleased the travellers have finally arrived and hope they all enjoy their stay in Norfolk Island, and safe journey home to everyone when you depart our friendly shores.

Betty Matthews

December 2022