This post examines the recent severe-weather-driven disruption at Zakynthos Airport that has left many travelers stranded, multiple flights delayed or canceled, and air traffic rerouted across Greece.
I’ll explain what happened, which routes and operators were most affected, the consequences for passengers and the island’s tourism industry, and practical steps travelers and local authorities can take while restrictions remain in force.
Overview of the Zakynthos Airport disruption
On 25 September 2025 the Greek Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) implemented air traffic restrictions affecting Zakynthos Airport. Those restrictions are in place until at least 1 October 2025.
The measures followed a period of severe weather that reduced operational capacity and forced multiple flights to be delayed, canceled or diverted.
Passengers have reported crowded terminals, long delays and uncertainty about onward travel.
Several services, including an 8:55 pm TUI flight to Newcastle, were specifically highlighted in early reports as impacted by the disruption.
Flights rerouted, congested hubs and passenger experience
Many flights bound for or originating at Zakynthos were rerouted to Athens, creating knock-on congestion at the capital’s airports.
This rerouting has compounded delays for travelers attempting to reach key UK destinations such as London, Birmingham and Manchester.
Passengers stuck at Zakynthos and at diversion airports described lengthy waits and limited real-time information.
Airlines, including TUI, have urged customers to check flight status online and to remain flexible as operators and authorities manage the backlog.
Why the restriction matters and operational challenges
Air traffic restrictions are a calibrated safety response. In this case, severe weather reduced runway availability and created conditions where continued normal operations would risk safety or create unmanageable delays.
Redirecting flights to larger hubs like Athens allows airlines to manage passengers and aircraft more effectively, but it also shifts the problem elsewhere.
From an operational perspective, the main challenges are:
- Re-accommodating passengers on limited aircraft and crew schedules.
- Managing ground handling resources at overcrowded diversion airports.
- Communicating real-time changes to travellers in multiple languages and markets.
Impact on Zakynthos tourism and local economy
Zakynthos is heavily reliant on reliable air links for international tourism.
Disruptions of this magnitude, particularly in peak or shoulder seasons, affect hotel occupancy, transfers and local businesses.
Even short-term interruptions can erode traveller confidence and complicate bookings and staffing for local operators.
What travelers should do now
If you are traveling to or from Zakynthos in the coming days, take a proactive approach to reduce stress and potential costs.
Prioritize reliable sources and document changes for insurance claims.
- Check your airline’s official status page and register for flight alerts.
- Contact your airline or travel agent early if your flight is canceled to secure rebooking or refunds.
- Review travel insurance terms for weather-related interruptions and keep receipts for additional expenses.
- Consider flexible accommodation options or contingency plans if you must travel during the restriction period.
Outlook and final recommendations
Current forecasts and official guidance indicate conditions should start to improve after 1 October 2025. Recovery of schedules may take several days beyond that date as airlines and airports clear the backlog.
Travelers should remain vigilant and monitor official updates. Plan for possible additional delays.
Here is the source article for this story: Zakynthos Airport Disruptions: Flights Cancelled, Delayed, and Diverted Amid Bad Weather, Here Is The Latest Update – Travel And Tour World