Bodø Airport Closed due to Snow and High Winds
Bodø Airport experienced significant disruptions on Monday due to severe whether conditions. Heavy snowfall and strong winds forced the closure of the runway, leading to the cancellation of all departures for the day. Helene Wattanapradit Jensen, communications advisor for Avinor, stated that the runway closure was necessary to ensure the safe removal of snow. Initially, the airport planned to reopen the runway at 7:30 PM, but the reopening was repeatedly delayed until all departures were ultimately canceled for the day. “There have been many challenges and an extremely demanding day at Bodø Airport. It has been snowy with heavy showers,and also a lot of wind,which has made the conditions difficult. Safety is always our first priority,” explained Jensen. To assist stranded passengers, the airport terminal remained open throughout the night. With limited hotel availability in Bodø, Avinor worked to provide camp beds within the terminal, and the narvesen convenience store on the second floor stayed open indefinitely. Passengers were advised to stay informed by checking updates from both their respective airlines and Avinor. Travelers can access real-time flight data on Avinor.no or through the Avinor app.## Interview with Avinor on bodø Airport Closure
**Archyde:** Thank you for speaking with us, Helene. Can you elaborate on the conditions that led to the closure of Bodø Airport today?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:** Of course. Today, Bodø Airport experienced a combination of heavy snowfall adn strong winds, creating challenging conditions for safe runway operations.
**Archyde:** The reopening was initially scheduled for 7:30 PM but was repeatedly delayed. What were the primary obstacles in getting the airport operational again?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:**
The combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds made snow removal a very time-consuming process.Safety is always our top priority,and we needed to ensure the runway was fully clear and safe for both arriving and departing aircraft.
**Archyde:** Passengers were clearly impacted by the extended closure. What measures were put in place to assist those stranded at the airport?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:** Recognizing the difficulties our passengers faced, we kept the airport terminal open throughout the night. We also provided camp beds to those needing overnight accommodation, and Narvesen, the convenience store located on the second floor, remained open indefinitely.
**Archyde:** Avinor is advising passengers to stay updated through your website and app. How can travelers best stay informed about future flight changes or potential disruptions?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:** We strongly encourage passengers to check both their airline’s website or app and avinor.no or our app for the latest flight information.
**Archyde:** In situations like this, with limited hotel availability and unforeseen travel disruptions, what message would you like to give to travelers?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:** We understand that thes situations can be frustrating. Our priority is passenger safety, and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding. We encourage travelers to plan ahead, check weather forecasts, and remain flexible with their travel plans when traveling during winter months.
**Archyde:**
Looking back on today’s events, is there anything Avinor would do differently in handling a similar situation in the future?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:** We continuously review and evaluate our procedures to ensure we’re providing the best possible service to our passengers. We’re always looking for ways to improve our communication and support during challenging situations like this.
**Archyde:** Thank you for your time, Helene.
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Do you think airports should invest in additional infrastructure or technology to better handle severe weather conditions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.**
_## Interview with Avinor on Bodø Airport Closure
**Archyde:** Thank you for speaking with us, Helene.Can you elaborate on the conditions that led to the closure of Bodø Airport today?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:** Certainly. Bodø Airport experienced exceptionally severe weather conditions today. We had heavy snowfall combined with strong winds, making it extremely difficult and unsafe to operate the runway. The safety of our passengers and staff is our top priority, which is why we made the difficult decision to close the runway and cancel all departures for the day.
**Archyde:** Initially, there was hope the runway might reopen later in the evening. What led to the repeated delays and eventual cancellation of all departures?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:** The combination of snow and wind made the snow removal process extremely challenging and time-consuming. Our teams worked tirelessly to clear the runway, but the conditions were relentless. The safety standards for operating a runway are very strict, and unluckily, we were unable to meet them in time to allow for any departures today.
**Archyde:** What arrangements were made to assist the stranded passengers?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:** We understand that this situation caused considerable inconvenience for our passengers. To alleviate some of the stress, we kept the airport terminal open throughout the night. Recognizing the limited hotel availability in Bodø, we provided camp beds within the terminal to ensure passengers had somewhere cozy to rest. Additionally, the Narvesen convenience store on the second floor remained open indefinitely to provide passengers with access to snacks and drinks.
**Archyde:** What advice would you give to travelers who might potentially be affected by similar situations in the future?
**Helene Wattanapradit Jensen:**
Firstly,always check the status of your flight with both your airline and Avinor before heading to the airport. We provide real-time flight data on our website, Avinor.no, and through our mobile app. Secondly, be prepared for unexpected delays by packing essential items like medication, snacks, and chargers in your carry-on luggage. remain patient and understanding in situations like this, as our priority is the safety and well-being of our passengers.
**Archyde**: Thank you for your time and for providing these helpful insights, Helene.