A record number of flights diverted to Austin’s airport in May
A record number of flights were diverted to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in May. A record 131 flights were diverted to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in May, more than any other month in airport history. Most of these flights were due to bad weather in North Texas. The airport, which averages about 400 diverted flights a year, is one of the busiest airports in the country for diversions. The location of Austin and its proximity to other busy airports makes it a prime location for diversion. The amount of space at AUS also allows it to handle more diverted flights due to its long runways and airfield parking positions.
Publicado : hace 3 semanas por Christopher Adams en Travel
AUSTIN (KXAN) — A record number of flights were diverted to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in May.
According to airport officials, 131 flights were diverted to AUS last month, more than any other month in airport history. Most of the diversions were due to bad weather in North Texas.
Emirates and Korean Air were among the airlines that had flights divert to Austin. Neither of the international airlines offer regular service to AUS.
Diverted flights can occur when there’s bad weather, technical problems, medical emergencies, closed airports or blocked runways.
Why is Austin prime for diversions?
AUS officials said the airport averages about 400 diverted flights a year, making it one of the busiest airports in the country for diversions.
Austin’s location makes it a prime location for diverted flights. AUS is in close proximity to four busy airports: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Dallas Love Field Airport, George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport. All four are within a 35-45 minute flight from Austin.
The amount of space at AUS also means the airport can handle more diverted flights. Two long runways and airfield parking positions can accommodate a lot of planes at once. AUS is also home to all the major airlines with a diversion plan that can handle international passengers in case Customs Border Protection is needed, an airport spokesperson told KXAN in 2022.