Winter storm paralyses transport across Europe: flights, railways and roads under pressure
Extreme winter conditions are continuing to create major problems for European transport. Snow, ice, and prolonged sub-zero temperatures are causing flight cancellations, railway line disruptions, and dangerous road conditions – from Western Europe to the Balkans. Authorities in several countries are advising against non-essential travel.
Air traffic among the worst affected
Airports are reporting the biggest disruptions. Hundreds of flights were cancelled at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in a single day, and problems have been ongoing for almost a week. Airlines are warning of limited de-icing fluid supplies, which is further slowing down operations.
In France, airlines have had to significantly reduce traffic at Parisian airports, including Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly. Some regional airports have been temporarily closed due to heavy rainfall. In Belgium, over 40 flights have also been cancelled at Brussels Airport.
A similar situation was recorded in Brussels, where delays were caused by lengthy cleaning of runways and aircraft.
Unlike in Western and Northern Europe, where disruptions have reached the level of mass cancellations, airports in the region are currently operating with increased operational caution. The flight is operating, but with occasional delays, additional de-icing procedures and schedule adjustments.
The most challenges have been recorded in the continental parts of the region, where snow and low temperatures occasionally affect take-off and landing dynamics. In this context, Belgrade Airport experienced short-term disruptions and delays, mostly due to weather conditions and increased traffic towards winter destinations.
Airports in Croatia, Slovenia and North Macedonia are mostly operating without major interruptions, Operators are warning that even minor disruptions in European hubs can have a knock-on effect on inbound and outbound flights. Routes that rely on connections via Western Europe are particularly vulnerable.
For tourism professionals in the region, this means a need for with constant monitoring of flight status, with flexible arrival planning at the destination and clear communication to passengers. Although the region is currently avoiding the worst-case scenarios, an extension of the cold snap could also increase pressure on local air infrastructure.
Railways and cross-border connections at a standstill
Rail transport in northern Europe is experiencing technical problems caused by frozen points. International lines between Belgium and the Netherlands are particularly affected, while high-speed connections to Amsterdam and Rotterdam have been temporarily suspended.
Eurostar has warned passengers of severe delays and possible cancellations on its routes connecting London with Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.
Delays in rail and bus transport have also been reported in almost all countries in the region.
Impact on security and supply
The winter conditions also had tragic consequences. Fatal accidents caused by icy roads and trees falling under the weight of wet snow were recorded in several countries. In the Balkans, roads were closed, and there were local disruptions to electricity and water supplies.
Governments have introduced additional precautionary measures. In certain regions, freight vehicles and school buses are prohibited from operating, which is already creating pressure on supply chains, especially for fresh produce.
Forecasts indicate the continuation of the cold snap, meaning transport disruptions could persist. Flexibility, clear communication, and up-to-date information remain crucial for effectively managing winter travel.
