Stranded passengers await further news as dozens of flights across all airlines out of Sydney’s domestic airport were cancelled due to a shortage of air traffic controllers.
The last-minute decision by Airservices Australia implementing a Ground Delay Program (GDP) is impacting all airlines in and out of Sydney today.
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Virgin Australia Airlines told 7NEWS.com.au that 16 flights have been affected.
“We are in the process of communicating to impacted guests and re-accommodating them on the next available services,” they said offering apologies to those affected.
“We regret this has required the cancellation of some Virgin Australia services to and from Sydney today. Guests booked to travel to and from Sydney today should monitor their flight information closely.”
The Ground Delay Program only allows 20 flights to arrive per hour, and will remain limited until 11pm AEST.
Buses in the Sydney CBD are under increased pressure from the large amount of stranded passengers, and those using public transport have been advised to expect delays.