Munich Airport apologises after snow chaos leaves 600 passengers stuck inside aircraft overnight

Munich Airport has issued an apology after heavy snowfall severely disrupted operations during the night of February 19–20, 2026, leaving around 600 passengers stranded on board six aircraft.

According to the airport, intense wet snowfall created significant operational challenges, including extended de-icing procedures and the temporary closure of runways for snow clearance. Although a special exemption to Munich’s strict night flight ban was obtained — allowing departures until 01:00 a.m. — the affected aircraft were ultimately unable to take off before the deadline.

Between midnight and 05:00 a.m., flights at Munich require individual approval from the Bavarian Ministry of Transport under Germany’s night flight regulations. Five of the six affected flights were operated by the Lufthansa Group, with one flight operated by Air Arabia.

“Due to the late hour and limited terminal capacity — already strained by earlier cancellations — the aircraft were parked at remote stands. Restricted bus services and communication difficulties further complicated the situation,” the airport said.

Munich Airport emphasised that passenger safety was never compromised and said airlines provided care onboard. The airport acknowledged that the disruption did not meet its service standards and confirmed that it is working with partners to review procedures and implement improvements.

Munich Airport, Germany’s second-busiest hub and a major base for Lufthansa, regularly operates under strict night curfews, which can complicate recovery during severe winter weather events.