Is Rhodes Airport open? Are flights delayed or cancelled after huge earthquake felt in Greek holiday island
A 5.8-magnitude earthquake rocked hotels in Rhodes, the Greek holiday island, in the early hours of this morning.
The earthquake was centred in the Mediterranean Sea and struck at 02:17 am. It was felt in the Greek island of Rhodes, waking many from their sleep, Turkey's NTV television reported.
Many tourists in Rhodes took to X, formerly Twitter, to share that they felt the earthquake in the early hours of the morning. One user wrote: “Jeepers nothing like an earthquake in Rhodes to get you going at 2am. Rather surreal to feel the whole hotel move!”.
Another user replied saying: “Absolutely terrified me”. Another said: “Just experienced an earthquake on the last night of our holiday in Rhodes! That was crazy. Hotel rocked like a baby's cradle!! Hope everyone is OK”.
Currently Rhodes Airport is operating as normal and the earthquake has had no impact on departing flights. However, flights arriving into the airport have been affected.
Dozens of arrival flights are delayed. For example a TUI flight from Glasgow at 12:25pm is now expected to arrive at 13:16pm, and a TUI flight from Bournemouth is also delayed. It is advised to check with your airline regarding the status of your flight.
A message was sent by TUI to a Brit tourist currently holidaying in Rhodes. It was sent early in the morning when it was not yet confirmed of the actual power of the earthquake. It has been reported this morning that the earthquake was 5.8 on the Richter scale.
The message from TUI read: "Dear Guests. We would like to inform you that an earthquake occurred at 02.17am with a magnitude of 6.6 on the Richter scale. The epicenter was located approximately 18 kilometres from Rhodes, at a depth of 68 kilometers (42 miles).
"Local authorities are currently assessing the situation. At this time, there are no reports of significant damage or injuries. As a precaution, please remain calm and follow any safety instructions provided by your accommodation or local officials.
"Should any specific action be required on your part, rest assured that we will contact you directly with further guidance. Your safety and well-being are our top priority."