Thousands Stuck as Over 60 Flights Canceled, Hundreds Delayed Across Major Australian Cities
Travelers across Australia experienced significant disruption as more than 60 flights were canceled and 300 delayed. The event affected airports in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney, disrupting plans for thousands. Several airlines, including Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Jetstar, were impacted by the disruptions.
Was your flight affected?
Air travel in Australia faced major interruptions as over sixty flights were canceled and three hundred delayed, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. This widespread disruption affected key airports in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, and several other locations, creating significant uncertainty for air travelers. Multiple airlines, such as Virgin Australia, Qantas, Jetstar, along with other carriers, were compelled to either cancel or delay their scheduled flights due to the situation.
Passengers at the affected airports encountered extended wait times and abrupt changes to their travel plans. Although details on what caused the sudden cancellations and delays were not specified, the operational impact was substantial, with the number of affected flights and passengers quickly rising. Airlines and airport authorities responded by trying to manage passenger flows and provide necessary updates, but the scale of the disruption led to many travelers facing unexpected overnight stays and continued delays.
As the interruption spanned several major hubs, the knock-on effect extended beyond initial departures, influencing arrivals and connecting flights throughout the affected period. While specific figures for the total number of passengers impacted were not provided in the available information, the cancellation of sixty-four flights and delay to three hundred others demonstrates a significant adverse effect on Australia's domestic and perhaps international airline schedules.
Authorities and airlines worked together to handle the backlog and offer assistance, advising passengers to check their flight status and consult with their airline for further instructions. The latest guidance encouraged those affected to make alternative arrangements where possible while waiting for updates regarding rescheduled flights or possible compensation under applicable regulations.
Know your rights
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight.
Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to times you must present yourself for check-in and boarding.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Delays and Cancellations
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Flights affected:
364
Status:
Current disruption
Airlines affected:
Virgin Australia, Qantas, Jetstar
Airports affected:
Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
13 October 2025