Christchurch fog causes flight cancellations and delays

A blanket of fog over Christchurch has halted and delayed several flights in and out of the city.

So far, nine flights have been disrupted at Christchurch Airport.

Flights arriving from Auckland, Invercargill, Wellington, Napier, Dunedin and Nelson have been cancelled.

A flight to Auckland and another to Hamilton had delayed arrival times.

Three departing flights heading across the country to Invercargill, Tauranga and Auckland have also been canned.

Christchurch Airport spokesperson Sean Tully said the fog had “caused a few issues” with flights this morning.

“It lifted briefly with blue skies at about 9am but then rolled back in about 9.30,” he said.

A blanket of fog over Christchurch is the result of warmer days mixing with cooler overnight temperatures.

He said a flight that was scheduled to land from San Francisco had since been diverted to Auckland.

“Some aircraft are taking off and landing, but it’s at the discretion of the aircraft captain, and conditions are moving between operable and not.”

He said the fog was expected to disperse by lunchtime and advised affected passengers to check with their airlines regarding travel disruptions.

The arrivals board on the Christchurch International Airport website shows several flights facing disruptions.

MetService meteorologist Alanna Burrows said fog can be expected during autumn as warmer days mix with cooler overnight temperatures.

“It’s going to start to lift and clear in the next couple of hours, with the temperature rising,” she said.

Christchurch International Airport has been approached for comment.