Australia: Residual flight delays, cancellations likely after smoke in Sydney Airport air traffic control tower prompts evacuation, disruptions Jan. 29

Event

Residual flight delays and cancellations are likely at Sydney Airport (SYD) over the coming hours after smoke in the air traffic control tower prompted authorities to evacuate the tower, issue a ground stop, and divert two inbound international flights Jan. 29. The smoke was reportedly attributed to gas fumes entering the tower via an air conditioning system; the incident did not result in any casualties. Air traffic management services have since been restored, and the ground stop and holding Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) have been canceled.

Despite the resumption of flight operations at SYD, any flight backlog would likely exacerbate disruptions over the coming hours.

Advice

Confirm flight reservations if flying via SYD through Jan. 29. Do not check out of accommodations until onward transportation is confirmed.