No flights to and from Isle of Man Airport after snow and ice forces runway to close

  • ITV's Isle of Man reporter Joshua Stokes reports from Ronaldsway Airport

No flights will operate from the airport on the Isle of Man and all schools have been forced to close due to freezing temperatures and snow.

An amber weather warning for ice and wintery showers is in place until noon on 5 January 2026, with temperatures expected to rise above freezing overnight.

The Isle of Man government confirmed that the runway at Ronaldsway Airport remains "unsuitable for aircraft operations."

Snow covers the TT grandstand. Credit: ITV News

In a statement, a spokesperson said: "Snow remains across the runway, taxiways and apron, with icy conditions underneath.

"Temperatures are not expected to rise enough to allow effective melting, meaning the runway remains unsuitable for aircraft operations.

"While mechanical snow clearance has taken place on parts of the apron, clearing the runway would create snow banks that could lead to further operational issues.

"As a result, no flights will operate today. Terminal facilities are limited, and security is now closed to additional passengers."

Schools are closed across the Isle of Man as freezing temperatures hit the island. Credit: ITV News

Meanwhile, all schools on the island and University College Isle of Man will stay closed on Monday due to dangerous conditions and disruption to the island's public transportation.

A spokesperson from the government said: "While some sites may be accessible, the safety of pupils and staff remains the top priority."

The facilities are expected to open as normal on Tuesday, 6 January, as temperatures warm up.

The Mountain Road remains shut, with the Department of Infrastructure saying it will review this later on Monday afternoon.

Government say they intend to reopen schools on Tuesday. Credit: ITV News

All main roads remain open but people are urged to drive with caution, with residents encouraged to allow extra time for journeys.

Meanwhile, patients with appointments are both hospitals on the island are being encouraged to only travel "if it is safe to do so."

Anyone scheduled for essential renal or chemotherapy should still attend. If they cannot travel they should call hospital.

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