Thousands stranded in airport chaos

HOLIDAYMAKERS, including many families with young children, made up the bulk of the thousands of passengers stranded in the chaos at Dublin Airport yesterday.

While airlines tried to put contingency plans in place, it quickly became clear yesterday afternoon that the failure of the radar system meant flights could simply not operate safely.

While some passengers desperately tried to log on to the internet to see if they could get alternative flights, others were simply left to wait and see when they might be able to fly out.

One English woman said: “I am really cross. We turned up here expecting to get a flight home.

“We have been told to phone a particular number, but we cannot get through. Our friends in England are even trying to get information on the internet because we can’t find out anything.”

Another woman said she had been at the airport for several hours before she was finally told her flight was cancelled. “I am going to lose my holiday apartment, which cost €600,” she said.

While Dublin Airport Authority staff tried to field the constant barrage of questions and demands from travellers, they could give no information until they themselves were informed of developments by the Irish Aviation Authority.

While the airlines were offering their passengers on cancelled and delayed flights the opportunity to re-book free of charge, it was clear who they were blaming for the situation.

Ryanair put a message on its website telling affected passengers: “Ryanair recommend that any complaints or inquiries in relation to this IAA collapse at Dublin Airport should be directed to the IAA via their headquarters in Dublin or to the Aviation Regulator who is responsible for ensuring that the IAA meets the needs of its users.” It published the contact details of both organisations.

Last night, the Labour party said that Transport Minister Noel Dempsey must immediately order the IAA to fully report on the recurrence of the radar safety malfunction problems.

Aer Lingus advised its passengers that the problem yesterday will “inevitably lead to substantial knock-on delays” today.