Christchurch Airport Update

Following a severe 6.3 earthquake at 1pm this afternoon, Christchurch International Airport was closed and all flights were diverted to other airports.

The runways have been checked and are now open for emergency flights only: medical personnel coming in, medical evacuations going out and military/civil defence services. The Airways Tower and navigational aids have been confirmed as operational.

The domestic and international terminals have sustained some damage, and airport staff will work through the night to clear the damage and ensure the terminals are safe for use tomorrow (Wednesday 23 FEBRUARY). It is hoped that DOMESTIC flights will resume at 8am Wednesday (23 FEBRUARY ); confirmation of this will be sent out at 6am Wednesday morning, 23 FEBRUARY.

All international flights have been cancelled. The airport hopes to resume some international services late on Wednesday afternoon, 23 FEBRUARY; confirmation of this will be given at midday Wednesday.

All domestic and international passengers are requested to check the airport website (www.christchurchairport.co.nz) or to call their airline for flight details. Passengers should not come to the airport unless they have confirmation their flight is scheduled.

This evening 150 police officers and two flights of St John Ambulance staff from other regions are flying into Christchurch Airport to join the rescue effort in the city.

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