Sumburgh Airport Closed Following Storm Emi Damage

All flights to and from Sumburgh Airport in Shetland were grounded on October 5, 2025, after Storm Emi caused serious damage to the cable network and knocked out the airport’s communication systems. All Loganair flights were disrupted, and the airport stays closed as technical crews continue evaluating the scale of the damage. Passengers were advised not to travel to the site and to await further updates as restoration work continues under challenging weather conditions.

Loganair stated that it is directly contacting all affected customers and providing information on rebooking procedures. Refunds will only apply to cancelled flights, while passengers on operating services can amend their plans online through the Manage My Booking page. Passengers who have already completed check-in must cancel it before arranging new bookings to maintain system compatibility during the rebooking process.

The airport closure demonstrates how vulnerable remote transport infrastructure can be during extreme weather conditions. Sumburgh Airport serves as the primary air gateway for the Shetland Islands, and even minor interruptions can greatly affect the daily lives of both residents and travelers. With limited air and sea routes to mainland Scotland, even small disturbances can swiftly cause missed appointments, shipment delays, or cancelled travel plans. Dependence on a single major airport leaves the region vulnerable to adverse weather conditions, as even short-term disruptions can quickly spread and cause widespread problems.

Travellers planning a journey to the Shetland Islands soon should anticipate possible schedule adjustments and longer delays. Flexible bookings and regular monitoring of flight information are essential during storm season. Alternative travel options, such as ferry services to Aberdeen or Kirkwall, frequently face the same challenging weather conditions and operate with restricted capacity. Passengers should plan additional time for travel and ensure accommodations can be adjusted at short notice if required.

This event highlights the persistent difficulties of air travel in northern areas, where severe weather continues to pose an inevitable threat. For the Shetland Islands, every storm confirms the importance of maintaining reliable infrastructure and effective communication between airlines and passengers. Travelers are reminded that preparation and flexibility remain key factors when using transport networks that are subject to the unpredictable climate of the North Atlantic.