Sahara Dust Cloud Hampers Operations at Canary Islands Airport

Dust storms in the Sahara Desert are a common occurrence. However, this time moving all the way from the African continent, the dust storms have made it to the Canary Islands in Spain.

The massive dust storm has suspended most flight operations to and from Gran Canaria. A massive cloud of red sand approached the northern Canary Islands severely reducing visibility stranding thousands of passengers.

According to media reports, flights from Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, North and South Tenerife airports were grounded on Sunday.

However, a recent statement by airport operator AENA on Monday morning said that flights from Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, and North Tenerife would be able to take off but those departing from South Tenerife continued to be grounded.

Many British passengers enjoying their half-term holiday were left stranded after the dust storm reduced visibility and operations were suspended.

A large dust cloud covered the skies, leaving it orange and was also visible from the space.

In the UK, however, flights out to the Canary Islands are being delayed or cancelled due to the sandstorm.