Hundreds stranded as flights cancelled at Sydney Airport

Airlines were left scrambling to notify passengers, some of whom were told of the delays only moments before boarding.

Hundreds of travellers have been left stranded at Sydney Airport after more than 50 flights were cancelled on Friday.

Airservices Australia reduced aircraft movement due to poor weather, but the delays were made worse by an unexpected air traffic controller shortage.

One staff member called in sick on late notice, it has been reported.

This caused 26 departures and 32 arrivals to be axed.

Airlines were left scrambling to notify passengers, some of whom were told of the delays only moments before boarding.

A replacement air traffic controller was called in, but not before flights were impacted.

“We are working on all measures to minimise further impact, including accommodating additional flights wherever safe,” an Airservices Australia spokesperson said.

The delays have caused issues for buses and trains. Picture: NewsWire / Jeremy Piper

“Airservices apologises to passengers affected by delays and cancellations, and we are disappointed that this has occurred so soon after our strong performance over the Christmas period, when ground delays were at record lows across the network.”

Virgin Australia Airlines said 16 flights have been impacted.

“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,” the airline said.

“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.”

Buses in Sydney are under increased pressure from the stranded passengers, and those using public transport have been told to expect significant delays.