Source : Perth Now news
AFL fans are facing chaos getting home as flights heading to Perth and Brisbane have been cancelled due to poor weather conditions.
Following Saturday’s epic grand final, both Brisbane and Fremantle supporters have been left scrambling to find a way home.
In a second blow in as many days for Fremantle fans, at least seven Virgin Perth-bound flights have been cancelled, along with two Melbourne-bound planes.
According to online flight monitors, these seven flights were scrapped – although Virgin officials stated only one flight was cancelled.
In a similar vein, according to Qantas website its 8am and 5.50pm flight from Melbourne to Perth has been cancelled.
The poor weather has not just impacted flights heading to Perth, with flights to Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Gold Coast and Canberra all delayed.
Passengers at Melbourne Airport reported long queues and packed terminals throughout the morning, as travellers scrambled to secure alternative arrangements or simply waited out the delays.
One of these fans spoke with 6PR Weekends host Mark Doran, saying he was stranded and had no choice but to rebook a flight with a different airline.
“They basically gave us the option of finding another carrier to get home or wait around and see what we could be rebooked on,” he said.
The two major airlines added a number of additional flights out of Victoria heading to Perth and Brisbane, to help fans leave post grand final day.
Despite these efforts, the combination of adverse weather and high demand meant many travellers were left stranded for hours longer than expected.
In a statement, a Virgin Australia spokesperson said flights were being delayed due to the weather.
“Low visibility and poor weather led air traffic control to limit arrivals into Melbourne yesterday. The resulting delays have carried into today’s operation, contributing to further delays and some cancellations.
“Our team is working hard to get guests to their destinations safely and as soon as possible, including adding additional services,” the spokesperson said.
