Airport hit by flooding reopened

Sep 21 2012

An airport has reopened after it was closed because of severe rainfall and flooding on Thursday.

Glasgow Prestwick airport in Ayrshire shut at about 4.30pm and flights were diverted.

Iain Cochrane, chief executive of the airport, said that the second runway had now been cleared while the main runway would be fully operational later. He said a small number of flights would be delayed this morning but advised passengers to travel to the airport as usual.

He told BBC Radio Scotland: "We opened just after 6am this morning. The flights that were diverted to other airports last night, the aircraft will be positioning in just after 8am this morning to accommodate our early departures. The opening of the second runway allows us to facilitate all of our passenger traffic.

"We've never experienced this level of rainfall in such a short period of time. The burn that runs under the main runway burst its banks and backed up and caused extensive problems, not just within the airport vicinity but in the surrounding area."

The A77 near Prestwick was closed in both directions at Dutchhouse roundabout, with diversions in place.

A statement posted on the airport's website said: "Following an airfield review Glasgow Prestwick Airport is pleased to advise that it has reopened.

"Flights may still be subject to delay and disruption, and passengers are advised to contact their airline for further information.

"Please allow extra time when travelling to/from the airport as some access routes may still be disrupted."