An upset Jet2 passenger recounts how his family had to spend the night on a chilly airport floor after being denied hotel accommodation. Following the cancellation of their 8.15pm flight from Lanzarote to Manchester due to severe weather conditions, some travelers were provided hotel rooms while others, including families with children, were left to manage on their own without food or beverages.
Reportedly, individuals not selected for hotel stays were informed that there were limited available rooms nearby, leaving them with no choice but to sleep on the floor. Carl Bickerton, aged 62 from Stockport, along with his wife and 16-year-old son, endured a delay of approximately 16 hours before finally boarding a flight back home around noon on Sunday.
Describing the chaotic experience, Bickerton mentioned that passengers remained on the plane for four hours before being escorted back to the terminal. He expressed surprise at the turn of events, mentioning the initially smooth boarding process followed by a prolonged wait on the aircraft with minimal communication about the situation.
Despite efforts by a Jet2 manager to secure accommodations, the situation became tense as several passengers, including those with medical needs, faced challenges. Many resorted to sleeping on chairs or the floor while awaiting updates on their flight status. Eventually, passengers were given 20 Euro vouchers for refreshments, and those still at the airport were informed of a noon boarding time on Sunday.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Bickerton noted the surreal nature of the experience and shared his observations on the varying responses of passengers at the airport and those accommodated in hotels. While expressing appreciation for Jet2’s response to his complaint, the passenger highlighted the need for improved assistance and communication during such disruptions.
In response to the incident, Jet2 has been contacted for a statement. A spokesperson for César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport emphasized that airlines are responsible for passenger support during flight disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions, with the airport offering collaboration to facilitate operations effectively.