Flight Buzz
Air France, British, Austrian, KLM, ITA, Lufthansa, and other Airlines Experience Major Travel Disruptions as Over 60 Flights Are Grounded Across Airports in Russia, UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, and More

Saturday, August 2, 2025
Air travel in Europe has been severely disrupted due to adverse weather conditions, impacting Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, Lufthansa and many others. Over 60 flights have been canceled and dozens of other flights have been delayed. Russian, British, Portuguese, Spanish and Italian airports, and many more, have been impacted by storms, heavy rainfall, and low visibility. These conditions have resulted in many people being stuck for long periods of time. These airlines continue to operate in Europe and the constant flow of aircraft is hampered by the current weather issues.
Bad weather continues to wreak havoc on air travel in Europe, with numerous airlines experiencing major flight disruptions. Over 60 flights have been grounded today at various airports across Russia, the UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, and Italy. These cancellations and delays have affected several major airlines, including Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, Lufthansa, and many others. Passengers are facing significant disruptions as they navigate through storms and adverse weather conditions.
Today, over 60 flights were grounded across major European airports, with disruptions affecting airlines such as Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, and Lufthansa. At Pulkovo, 18 cancellations (8%) and 2 delays (0%) impacted Rossiya Airlines, while Sheremetyevo saw 14 cancellations (6%) and 76 delays (11%), mostly affecting Aeroflot. Vnukovo reported 10 cancellations (23%) and 13 delays (0%), with Rossiya Airlines and UTair most impacted. Heathrow had 5 cancellations (0%) and 59 delays (5%), while Schiphol experienced 6 cancellations (0%) and 183 delays (15%), with KLM and easyJet hit hardest. Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado had 2 cancellations (33%) and 49 delays (10%), primarily affecting TAP Air Portugal. Other airports, including Barcelona, Nice, Dublin, Brussels, and Venice, also reported significant delays and cancellations due to severe weather across Russia, the UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, Belgium, and Italy. The disruptions highlight the ongoing challenges of weather-related flight operations in Europe.
Major Airlines Affected by Weather Chaos
Among the airlines impacted by today’s disruptions, Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, and Lufthansa are some of the most notable names. These carriers are among the largest in Europe and operate numerous international routes. However, severe weather has forced them to ground flights, delay departures, and cause significant inconvenience for travelers.
The total number of grounded flights has been substantial, with airports such as Pulkovo, Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol, and others reporting major cancellations. In fact, as of today, more than 60 flights have been affected across various European airports. While the primary reason for these disruptions has been bad weather, the severity of the situation has made it clear how vulnerable the aviation industry is to such conditions.
Affected Airports
Pulkovo Airport (Russia)
At Pulkovo, 18 flights were canceled, and two additional flights were delayed. Among the most impacted carriers were Rossiya Airlines, which saw a significant percentage of its flights grounded (18 cancellations), and Aeroflot, which also faced disruptions. Other airlines such as Pegas Fly, Yamal Airlines, and My Freighter were also affected, although their cancellations and delays were lower in number.
Sheremetyevo International Airport (Russia)
Sheremetyevo, one of the busiest airports in Russia, reported 14 cancellations and 76 delays today. Aeroflot, the national carrier, was among the hardest hit, with 58 delayed flights. Other airlines such as Rossiya Airlines and Yamal Airlines also experienced delays, with several international carriers, including Beijing Capital Airlines, Air China, and China Southern Airlines, suffering cancellations and delays due to bad weather conditions.
Vnukovo Airport (Russia)
Vnukovo airport saw a relatively smaller impact with 10 cancellations and 13 delays. Rossiya Airlines again topped the list of affected airlines with 10 cancellations, while UTair, Azimuth, and FlyDubai were also impacted. While the disruptions were fewer compared to other airports, passengers traveling through this hub still faced delays and cancellations throughout the day.
London Heathrow Airport (UK)
Heathrow, one of the busiest international airports in the world, reported 59 delays and 5 cancellations. British Airways faced the brunt of these disruptions, with 37 delayed flights. Other airlines, including KLM, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, also reported cancellations and delays. International carriers like Air Baltic, Cathay Pacific, and Kenya Airways were similarly affected. Weather-related disruptions at Heathrow have led to long queues and frustrated passengers, as several flights were either canceled or delayed for several hours.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (Netherlands)
Amsterdam Schiphol, a major European hub, reported 183 delays and 6 cancellations today. KLM, the national carrier of the Netherlands, was the most affected airline, with over 100 delayed flights. Other airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Air France, Lufthansa, and easyJet, saw a significant number of flights delayed or canceled. Passengers at Schiphol faced a chaotic situation with long wait times and delays, as adverse weather conditions caused havoc on the runway schedules.
General Humberto Delgado Airport (Portugal)
Portugal’s busiest airport, General Humberto Delgado in Lisbon, reported 49 delays and 2 cancellations. TAP Air Portugal was the most impacted airline, with several delays across its routes. Other affected airlines included Air Canada, KLM, and Ryanair, as well as several smaller regional carriers. Portugal’s weather situation resulted in disruptions at this hub as well, affecting both domestic and international flights.
Barcelona International Airport (Spain)
In Spain, Barcelona International saw 83 delays and just 1 cancellation. EasyJet was the worst-hit airline, with several flights delayed. KLM, Ryanair, and Lufthansa also saw disruptions to their schedules. The flight cancellations were minimal, but delays were widespread, affecting travelers looking to make their way to and from Spain’s most popular airport.
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (France)
Nice Côte d’Azur, located in the south of France, reported 62 delays and 1 cancellation. The weather in the region caused major delays, particularly with airlines like easyJet and Air France. Other affected airlines included KLM, British Airways, and Lufthansa. While the number of cancellations was low, the airport saw numerous delayed flights, leading to crowded terminals and frustrated travelers.
Dublin International Airport (Ireland)
Dublin International reported 33 delays and 1 cancellation today. Ryanair, a low-cost carrier, was the most impacted, with 10 delays. Other airlines such as Aer Lingus, United, and Eurowings faced some disruptions as well, with a few flights either delayed or canceled due to the inclement weather.
Brussels Airport (Belgium)
Brussels saw 40 delays and 2 cancellations, with Brussels Airlines being the most affected carrier. Other airlines such as Air Canada, Aegean Airlines, and Vueling also experienced disruptions. Though the number of cancellations was low, delays were widespread across various international and regional flights.
Marco Polo International Airport (Italy)
At Marco Polo International in Venice, 26 delays and 1 cancellation were reported. EasyJet and KLM were among the airlines facing significant delays. Other airlines such as Ryanair and Lufthansa also had flights affected. The adverse weather in the region forced several flights to be delayed or canceled, leaving passengers stranded or unable to meet their schedules.
Bad Weather Continues to Disrupt Air Travel
The primary reason for these widespread cancellations and delays is the ongoing adverse weather conditions across Europe. Severe storms, heavy rainfall, and low visibility have made it impossible for several airlines to operate their flights on time. The storms have not only affected airports in major cities but also smaller regional hubs, making it a continent-wide issue.
Airlines are struggling to accommodate affected passengers, as delays and cancellations continue to stack up. While some airlines have been able to rebook passengers on later flights, others are unable to offer alternative solutions due to the scale of the disruptions. With bad weather expected to persist for the next few days, the situation could worsen before it improves.
Passenger Impact and Airport Response
Passengers at affected airports have reported long wait times, crowded terminals, and frustration as they attempt to rebook flights or find alternative transportation options. Airlines are offering compensation, including meal vouchers and hotel accommodations, for passengers stranded overnight. However, many travelers are still left scrambling for answers as the bad weather continues to wreak havoc.
Airport authorities across Europe have been working tirelessly to manage the situation, but the scale of the disruptions has proven difficult to handle. While efforts are being made to clear backlogs, it is clear that the ripple effect of these cancellations will continue for days to come. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on their flights and to expect further delays.
The Way Forward
As the weather conditions improve, it is hoped that airlines and airports will be able to return to normal operations. However, it will take time to clear the backlog of delayed and canceled flights. Airlines are working hard to get their schedules back on track, but passengers should expect ongoing disruptions until the storm passes.
In the meantime, travelers are encouraged to remain patient and stay informed about their flight status. While airlines and airports continue to battle adverse weather, it is essential to keep communication open and be prepared for potential changes in travel plans.
The severe weather situations in Europe have prompted more than 60 flight cancellations from major carriers like Air France, British, KLM and even Lufthansa. Airports in Russia, UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland and Italy are still recovering from storms, excessive rain, and low visibility which has made air travel quite difficult.
The unexpected weather changes even today have shown how fragile the aviation industry is and how quickly they can be impacted due to unforeseen weather changes. Air France, British, Austrian, KLM, ITA, and even Lufthansa to name a few airlines are gravely impacted, with more than 60 flights being canceled from major air travel hubs in Russia, UK, Spain, France, and Italy. Weather disruptions like this remind us how important weather predictions are, as they allow airlines and airports to manage operations more smoothly, utilizing proper adaptability.
Flight Buzz
Hawaiian Airlines launches ‘Sip and Soar Sweepstakes’ to celebrate local travel and culinary excellence : Maui Now

August 2, 2025, 4:00 PM HST
Hawaiian Airlines, in partnership with Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa and the Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival, is inviting kamaʻāina to rediscover the beauty and flavors of West Maui through its new Sip & Soar Sweepstakes. The campaign, running through Aug. 31, offers Huakaʻi by Hawaiian members an exclusive chance to win an unforgettable Maui getaway.
The sweepstakes is part of Hawaiian Airlines’ ongoing commitment to supporting local travel and community events. One lucky winner will receive a Maui staycation package valued at $3,550, which includes:
- Two roundtrip neighbor island flight on Hawaiian Airlines
- A two-night oceanfront stay at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
- Two priority access tickets to the “World of Wagyu, Wine & Whiskey” at the 15th Annual Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival on Oct. 25 in Kāʻanapali
“This sweepstakes is our way of encouraging kamaʻāina, through our Huakaʻi by Hawaiian program, to reconnect with and support the vibrant community of West Maui,” said Alisa Onishi, managing director of Hawai‘i marketing at Hawaiian Airlines. “We’re honored to partner with Sheraton Maui and the Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival to help spotlight the incredible culture, cuisine, and hospitality that make Maui so special.”
To enter, Hawai‘i residents must be 21 years or older and enrolled in Huakaʻi by Hawaiian by Aug. 31, 2025. Membership is free and offers exclusive benefits such as quarterly fare discounts, one free checked bag on interisland flights and access to special promotions.
All eligible Huakaʻi by Hawaiian members will be automatically entered into the sweepstakes. The winner will be notified via email and must accept the prize and applicable tax responsibilities.
For official rules and eligibility, visit HawaiianAirlines.com/OfficialRules.
Flight Buzz
ITA Airways Cancels Flights To Israel Amid Rising Tensions And Security Warnings

Sunday, August 3, 2025
In a major move affecting international air travel, ITA Airways, Italy’s national carrier, has announced the suspension of all flights from Italy to Israel until October 1, 2025. This decision comes as a response to the rising security situation in Israel. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has driven this precautionary measure. Many travelers now find themselves uncertain about their plans and must reconsider their flight options to and from Tel Aviv, Israel’s main international gateway.
ITA Airways, a member of the Lufthansa Group and the Star Alliance, shared this announcement through its official channels. The airline stated that the suspension stems from safety concerns for passengers and crew amid the unstable situation. While these measures aim to ensure safety, they also expose the broader challenges international airlines face when political or security issues arise.
Impact on Travelers: Stranded Passengers and Uncertainty
The suspension of flights from Italy to Israel has disrupted travel plans for many individuals and families who were set to fly between the two countries. Travelers with existing bookings should contact ITA Airways directly for updates on rebooking options or refunds. The airline has committed to helping affected passengers and is working closely with relevant authorities to address the situation.
The uncertainty surrounding the flight suspension shows the challenges international travelers encounter when political instability disrupts air travel. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed by regularly checking the airline’s updates and any travel advisories from official government sources. Those planning to travel to Israel in the coming months need to be flexible with their plans, as the situation can change based on security developments.
Broader Implications for International Air Travel
ITA Airways’ choice to suspend flights signals a growing trend among international airlines reassessing their operations in the Middle East over safety concerns. Several other airlines have altered their schedules or suspended services to Israel in recent months, citing similar risks.
The impact of such suspensions extends beyond tourism or business travel. It also affects diplomatic and cultural exchanges between countries. Israel and Italy have enjoyed a long-standing relationship, with many tourists and business professionals traveling between the two nations each year. The lack of direct flights creates a ripple effect that impacts various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, and trade.
For ITA Airways, the suspension is not just a temporary inconvenience for travelers; it could have long-lasting effects on tourism between Italy and Israel. For many, Israel has been a popular destination for historical and cultural tourism, especially for those interested in Jerusalem’s ancient sites, the Dead Sea, and the region’s religious significance. With flights suspended, there are concerns that tourism may slow down until security conditions improve.
Looking Ahead: Flexible Travel Options and Future Updates
While the flight suspension is expected to last until October 1, 2025, ITA Airways has stressed that they will regularly review the situation based on the security environment in Israel. The airline remains committed to passenger safety and will continue to monitor developments, providing updates as needed. It is also anticipated that flights to Israel will resume in phases once the security situation stabilizes.it
Travelers who planned to visit Israel should think about alternative routes or destinations for now. Many airlines offer connections to Israel through other European hubs like Frankfurt, London, or Paris. Some may also find it worthwhile to consider other Middle Eastern countries, such as Jordan or Egypt, which also boast rich cultural and historical significance and are relatively close to Israel.
Preventative Measures: Airline Responsibility and Passenger Safety
The flight suspension raises questions about the responsibility of airlines in facing global security threats. Airlines often temporarily halt or adjust their flight schedules in response to areas of conflict or places where risks of violence are high. In these situations, airlines must prioritize the safety of their passengers and staff. ITA Airways’ actions remind us how sensitive airline operations can be to changing geopolitical conditions.
As travel continues, passengers are encouraged to stay informed about security conditions in the region, consult official government travel advisories, and know their rights in case of a flight cancellation. Understanding passenger safety protocols and exploring insurance options can also offer travelers peace of mind during disruptions.
Conclusion: Managing Travel Amidst Uncertainty
The suspension of ITA Airways flights to Israel highlights the challenges airlines face when political instability disrupts travel plans. While the decision is mainly based on safety concerns, it underscores the complexities of air travel in unstable regions. For affected travelers, flexibility and patience are essential as they navigate the uncertainty of their future travel plans. As the security situation changes, airlines like ITA Airways will likely adjust their operations to ensure passenger safety, providing updates as new developments arise.
For now, passengers intending to travel to Israel from Italy should look into alternative routes or destinations and stay updated on flight operations. With global travel becoming more interconnected, the ability to adapt to unexpected circumstances remains crucial for ensuring safe and smooth travel experiences for all.
(Source: ITA Airways, Israel flight cancellations, flight suspensions, travel advisory, airline disruptions, international air travel, security concerns, Israel tourism)
Flight Buzz
Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Open a New Chapter in Travel With Direct Flights, Visa-Free Entry, and Festival Tourism

Sunday, August 3, 2025
Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are reshaping the travel landscape in Central Asia by launching a new era of regional tourism defined by convenience, culture, and collaboration. With direct flights now linking key cities, visa-free entry easing cross-border movement, and a growing calendar of coastal festivals and cultural events, travelers from these three nations are enjoying easier, richer, and faster access to each other’s destinations. This new chapter in travel isn’t just about numbers—it’s about connection. Whether it’s a beachside music festival on the Caspian coast or a weekend getaway in the heart of Baku, the region is opening up in ways that are bringing people—and possibilities—closer than ever before.
Rather than casting a wide net globally, the country is strategically deepening regional ties to boost its tourism sector—reviving momentum lost during the global shutdown and laying new paths for future growth.
From Baku to Basqal, Familiarization Tours Show Off Azerbaijan’s Diversity
To showcase its offerings firsthand, Azerbaijan recently welcomed tourism representatives from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan on a curated familiarization journey. The route led them through the cobbled streets of Baku’s historic core, into the tranquil villages of the Shamakhi highlands, and onward to Caspian beach resorts—each destination revealing a different face of the country’s tourism potential.
Along the coast, guests were treated to one of the season’s most anticipated cultural events—a music and lifestyle festival held steps from the sea. Combining regional talent with an open-air setting, the event struck a chord with visitors from neighboring countries, offering an experience that felt both exclusive and culturally familiar.
Tourism Industry Connects Regionally Through New Business Collaborations
To convert interest into long-term partnership, a regional tourism networking session followed the tour. Dozens of Azerbaijani hospitality brands, tour agencies, and resort operators sat down with Central Asian travel companies in a business-to-business format. The goal? Forge deeper ties, co-create travel packages, and open new promotional channels across borders.
This direct engagement with the industry helps ensure that Central Asian visitors aren’t just welcomed—they’re offered experiences and itineraries that feel tailor-made. It’s a smart approach, placing regional cooperation at the center of Azerbaijan’s tourism strategy.
Visitor Surge Signals New Momentum
Recent tourism figures show that this effort is bearing fruit. During the first six months of the year, Azerbaijan recorded over 68,000 tourist arrivals from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan—marking a 15% rise compared to the same stretch last year. The numbers reflect a growing appetite for nearby, visa-free travel among Central Asian citizens, as well as rising awareness of Azerbaijan as a multi-season destination.
Thanks to improved air connectivity, traveling to Baku now takes less than three hours from many Central Asian cities. Multiple carriers are now operating direct routes from four Kazakh cities and two Uzbek hubs. For travelers seeking spontaneous weekend trips or short family vacations, this connectivity has made Azerbaijan both practical and desirable.
A Caspian Sea Ferry Project Hints at Future Mobility
Looking ahead, regional mobility may extend beyond air routes. Plans are being explored for a high-speed passenger ferry connecting the Kazakh port city of Aktau with Baku across the Caspian Sea. If developed, the service would not only offer scenic passage but also reinforce a historical link between the two regions—turning the sea into a corridor for tourism and commerce.
This waterway connection could create fresh possibilities for cross-border exploration, opening up multi-destination travel circuits across the Caspian basin.
Tourism Recovery Rides on Strategic Long-Term Vision
The recent regional push reflects a long-term vision that began years ago. In a bold move to rebrand its image, Azerbaijan launched a global marketing campaign in 2018 designed to reposition the country as a must-visit destination. Part of that strategy included opening overseas offices in key international markets and designing a new tourism identity that emphasized its cultural richness, landscapes, and modern appeal.
Before the pandemic struck, those efforts had started to pay off. The country welcomed over 3 million international visitors in 2019—its best tourism year on record. However, like nearly all destinations, Azerbaijan faced a steep drop in arrivals in 2020, as border closures and travel bans took their toll.
Rather than wait for global travel to bounce back, Azerbaijan is taking a proactive stance—starting with the travelers who are just a few hours away.
Conclusion: A Reimagined Tourism Future Begins at Home
Azerbaijan is tapping into something many destinations overlook: the power of regional travel. By focusing on its neighbors—countries with cultural links, shared histories, and easy access—it’s setting a blueprint for recovery that doesn’t rely on long-haul flights or distant markets. Whether it’s a quick escape to the Caspian coast, a music-filled weekend in Baku, or a mountain retreat in the highlands, the country is crafting experiences that appeal directly to Central Asian travelers.
And with visa-free travel, direct routes, and expanding partnerships, this new chapter in Azerbaijani tourism is just getting started.
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