Stranded passengers are left 'screaming' as UK airport suspends all flights due to runway defect

Published: 00:32, 8 August 2026 | Updated: 00:56, 8 August 2026 Passengers left stranded at Bristol Airport were left 'screaming' after a defect on the runway suspended all flights. Hundreds of flyers were stuck this evening as the major UK airport worked to repair the issue as shocking images show hundreds of people waiting in crowds at their departure gates. The airport said all flights have been cancelled until at least 6am on Saturday and arrivals were being diverted to other airports including London, Birmingham and Cardiff. There were nearly 50 flights due to arrive and 14 departures as passengers were forced to wait in 'packed' terminals. Richard Broadbent said his partner and daughter were due to fly to Newcastle but were left at the airport unable to board their flight. He told the BBC: 'Suddenly all flights were cancelled and all passengers were moved to one place down at ground level, and it was absolutely packed. 'Then alarms started going off, people were screaming and passengers were trying to break out, there was no staff,' he said. 'She was ever so upset, I could hear people screaming on the phone.' Passengers left stranded at Bristol Airport were left 'screaming' after a defect on the runway suspended all flights Other passengers reported that there was little communication from the airport with no announcements on the tannoy system for over an hour.  EasyJet were said to be the only representatives in the departure lounge, which warned people travelling to and from the airport to expect significant disruptions. Furious passengers stuck in the chaos complained of being left stranded in the airport and 'appalling communication'. One wrote on X: 'EasyJet holding everyone hostage at Bristol Airport! Let us out! Let us out! Communication is appalling.' A second added: 'It’s disguising. They’ve locked me in the gate 26 toilets. All I did was ask them why it was cancelled.' A third wrote: 'Bristol Airport, what’s happening tonight? We are stuck in the airport with no clear guidance for 3 hours. Any information would be appreciated.' One concerned parent said: 'EasyJet I am livid!!!! Your flight from Dubrovnik to Bristoltonight has been cancelled and there are no staff there to assist.  'My daughter has been told to go on your website and book another flight to Gatwick!! No mention of hotel!Pathetic!!Please dm me now!' While another enraged passenger said their flight had been diverted hours away from Bristol to Newcastle.  A Bristol Airport spokesperson said: 'Due to a defect on the runway, we have temporarily suspended operations as a precaution, in order to inspect and repair the section affected. 'We apologise for any inconvenience. Safety is always our number one priority,' they added. 'Customers should refer to their airlines with any flight queries.'