Weather Disruption Prompts Loganair to Offer Flexible Rebooking

Loganair has advised customers travelling on 23 January that unsettled weather across northern Scotland and the Channel Islands may cause flight disruption. The airline first issued its notice on 21 January, linking it to a Met Office weather warning running through 23 January across Kirkwall and Sumburgh. A further update then extended similar flexibility for Jersey services through 24 January. Scheduled flights are still planned, but delays remain possible.

To reduce the risk of travellers getting stranded, the airline is allowing passengers booked on affected routes to move their trip without extra fees. The policy applies to journeys originating between 21 and 23 January for Kirkwall and Sumburgh, and between 23 and 24 January for Jersey. Refunds are not offered for flights operating as normal, but full refunds apply if Loganair cancels a service. The offer covers both inbound and outbound flights.

Affected airports (no-fee changes):

• Kirkwall (KOI) – valid 21–23 January
• Sumburgh (LSI) – valid 21–23 January
• Jersey (JER) – valid 23–24 January

Customers can rebook onto another Loganair service within 14 days of the original travel date without paying any fare differences or administrative charges, provided seats are available. Bookings can be adjusted online through "Manage My Booking", though passengers who have already checked in must first uncheck before submitting changes. A help centre number is also available for those unable to find alternatives online.

The revised policy benefits travellers heading to or returning from island destinations with limited winter connectivity. Kirkwall is the main gateway to Orkney, with easy links to islands, historic stone circles and coastal routes. Sumburgh links to Shetland’s wildlife sites and archaeology, while Jersey offers beaches, wartime tunnels and Saint Helier’s markets. Flexible rebooking helps preserve these opportunities during unsettled winter weather.

With today being 23 January, Loganair’s notice may matter for anyone currently preparing to fly or holding tickets for the next few days. The situation shows how winter forecasts continue to influence travel across smaller island airports, where winds and sea conditions often shape operations. The airline’s decision to offer fee-free changes gives customers breathing room during a difficult weather window without forcing rushed cancellations.