A Ryanair Flight FR2954 that departed from Alicante (ALC), bound for Newquay (NQY), on 24 Oct. 2026 returned to its departure airport eight hours after take-off due to severe weather.
The disruption was caused by Storm Austen, which brought strong winds to southwest England, preventing the flight from reaching its destination.
Storm Prevents Landing in Cornwall
The aircraft departed Alicante and, as it approached Newquay, deteriorating weather conditions made a safe landing impossible as Storm Austen ruled out a safe landing.
The Ryanair crew subsequently diverted toward Bristol initially but due to conditions there being suitable as well the aircraft had to abandon a second landing attempt.
With options becoming limited, the flight diverted to Dublin, where it landed and refuelled while Ryanair evaluated its next steps. The aircraft then decided to make its return to Spain. Reports indicate that affected passengers were provided hotel accommodation after arriving back in Alicante.
Weather Disruption and Passenger Rights
While the lengthy delay created significant disruption, passengers on this flight will not be entitled to cash compensation as Storm Austen constitutes extraordinary circumstances under EC261. Airlines must still provide care and assistance, including accommodation where necessary.
The incident demonstrates the operational challenges airlines face during severe weather events which leaves the crew with few viable options despite multiple attempts otherwise.
For passengers hoping to reach Cornwall, the trip ultimately had to begin again the following day after one of the more unusual diversion stories of the year.
What would you do if you spent eight hours in the air only to end up back at your departure airport?
