Published on January 10, 2026
Heavy snowfall and severe winter weather from Storm Goretti has caused widespread disruption across the United Kingdom, including at major air transport hubs serving London airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted. Travellers are seeking clarity on whether these key airports are closed and what the status of flights and airport operations is amid ongoing snow and ice warnings issued by the UK Met Office. The impact of this snowstorm on London’s major airports has led to flight cancellations, delays and travel advisories, prompting authorities to emphasise safety and communicate updated information for visitors and commuters.

Latest Airport Status After Heavy Snow

Heathrow Airport Status

Heathrow, the UK’s busiest international airport, remains open and operational, but with significant disruption to schedules as snow and ice conditions persist. Heathrow’s latest traveller information confirms that runways, taxiways and aircraft stands have been cleared of snow and that its winter operations plan is active. However, airlines and airport services are running at reduced capacity with about 50 percent of normally scheduled flights expected to operate as snow clearance continues.

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Many scheduled departures and arrivals have already been cancelled or delayed, including short‑haul European services and longer flights, underscoring the impact of winter weather on passenger volumes and aircraft movements at Heathrow’s terminals.

Gatwick Airport Status

Gatwick, another major airport serving the London region, is also open but experiencing flight cancellations and delays due to persistent snow and icy conditions. Reports from airport operations indicate a number of cancelled arrivals and departures, with travellers urged to check their flight status directly with airlines or via official airport channels before travelling to the airport.

Gatwick’s infrastructure and snow‑clearing plans are active, but the volume of flights affected suggests that although the airport is not fully closed, operations remain disrupted and schedules are volatile.

Stansted Airport Status

Stansted Airport, which serves a large share of low‑cost and international flights for the London region, remains open and operational at present. Unlike Heathrow and Gatwick, initial reports indicate no complete airport closure for Stansted due directly to snow at the time of this update, though travellers should note that flight timings and departures may still be affected by snow‑related delays.

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As at other airports, passengers are strongly advised to confirm current status with their airline before heading to the airport, as schedules may change rapidly due to weather conditions.

Why This Is Happening: UK Weather and Transport Warnings

The severe travel disruption at London airports follows a major weather event in the UK known as Storm Goretti, which brought heavy snowfall, ice and strong winds to much of the country. The Met Office issued red and amber warnings for snow, ice and wind, highlighting travel disruption risks across England, Wales and Scotland.
The storm’s extreme conditions — with wind gusts nearing 100 mph in some regions and snow accumulations prompting safety warnings — have affected ground transport, rail services and air travel alike, contributing to cancellations and operational delays at major airports.

Impact on Travellers

Flight Cancellations and Delays

Many travellers have experienced flight cancellations at Heathrow and Gatwick as airlines adjust to snow and ice affecting runways and aircraft turnaround times. Data shows dozens of flights cancelled and delayed across multiple airlines at Heathrow, and similar disruption at Gatwick.
Passengers on impacted flights are being advised to contact airlines for updated arrangements, potential rebooking or refunds. Under UK Civil Aviation Authority regulations, airlines and airports have responsibilities to assist passengers during significant weather‑related disruption.

Travel Advisory and Safety

The UK Met Office warns that snow and ice will continue to affect travel across much of the country, prompting caution for travellers connecting through London airports or planning onward journeys by rail or road. Yellow and amber weather warnings remain in effect for parts of the UK, recommending avoidance of non‑essential travel where possible and urging travellers to stay informed of weather developments.

Ground Transport Disruption

In addition to airport delays, extensive disruption to rail and road transport has affected access to London airports, complicating onward travel plans for many passengers. With train services suspended or reduced in some regions and icy roads posing hazards, travellers should budget extra time and plan safe routes when commuting to airports.

Advantages for Travellers

• Safety First: Reductions in flight operations ensure that only safe runways and aircraft are in use during winter conditions, prioritising passenger safety even at the cost of delays.
• Early Information: Official updates from airports and airlines help travellers adjust plans quickly and seek alternative arrangements if flights are cancelled.
• Passenger Rights: In the UK, laws provide travellers with specific rights for compensation, refunds or rerouting in response to significant delay or cancellation due to weather.
• Clearance Operations Underway: Airports have active snow‑clearing teams working around the clock to reopen and maintain runways and taxiways, making eventual resumption of normal service possible.
• Preparation Time: Advance weather warnings give travellers a chance to adjust itineraries and communicate with carriers ahead of time.

Disadvantages and Considerations

• Travel Delays: Continued snow and icy conditions, even if airports remain open, mean frequent flight delays and cancellations that disrupt travel plans.
• Uncertain Schedules: Flights may be cancelled with short notice as airlines react to evolving weather conditions and runway safety checks.
• Surface Transport Issues: Disruption to rail and road transport makes getting to and from airports difficult, especially for early morning flights.
• Winter Hazards: Snow and ice on airport grounds and surrounding areas pose persistent risks to operational stability and passenger safety.
• Communication Challenges: Rapid changes in flight status require travellers to stay continually updated via airline apps and official airport channels.

Conclusion

In summary, London’s major airports — Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted — are not fully closed, but they are experiencing significant disruptions due to heavy snow and winter weather brought on by Storm Goretti across the UK. Heathrow and Gatwick have seen a high number of cancellations and delays, while Stansted remains open but subject to operational variability. Travellers should confirm flight status with their airlines, anticipate delays and use official travel advisories and support services for rerouting or compensation. Updated weather forecasts from the UK Met Office and guidance from the UK Civil Aviation Authority continue to be essential resources as conditions evolve, and safety remains the primary priority for all transport operations.

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Tags: cancellations and travel advice for affected UK flights., Gatwick and Stansted, London airports affected by heavy snow: check status of Heathrow

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