Severe weather cancels AFL fan flights at Melbourne Airport
Multiple airlines cancelled flights from Melbourne on Saturday after severe weather grounded departures.
Severe weather forced Melbourne Airport to halt flights on Saturday as thousands of AFL fans tried to get home after the grand final. Virgin Australia had at least one confirmed cancellation to Perth, though online flight trackers showed seven flights scrapped.
Qantas cancelled its 8am and 5.50pm services to Perth. Flights to Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Gold Coast and Canberra were also delayed.
Passengers faced long queues and packed terminals while scrambling to rebook with other airlines. Both carriers added extra flights to manage demand, but the combination of poor weather and high passenger numbers left many stranded for hours.
Why it mattersTravel disruption during major events leads to extra costs and delays for thousands; airports struggle to manage surges in demand.
AustraliaMelbourne Airport, Australia's second-busiest, showed capacity strain during a major sporting event, highlighting challenges for the travel system.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 44 min ago
Open this story in InSnip →
