Earlier this week two firefighters died tackling a fire close to the airport
Bordeaux Airport has issued an update for passengers as wildfires blaze in south-west France and Spain, resulting in the evacuation of around 200,000 people.
In the early hours of Saturday evacuation orders were issued by the prefect of the Gironde region, covering parts of three of Bordeaux’s western suburbs, including its airport. The statement said: “As the fire continues to spread, and despite the significant resources deployed by firefighters, the situation requires the evacuation of residents from the affected areas to ensure their safety.”
Bordeaux Airport has issued an update to passengers. It states: “Airport operations are still ongoing. Bus and tram service has been suspended. No trams or buses between Mérignac Soleil and the airport.”
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easyJet flies from Manchester Airport to Bordeaux four times a week in summer, on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The next flight is expected to depart Manchester tomorrow evening at 6.05pm.
Earlier this week it was announced that two firefighters died while battling a huge blaze near the airport. On Tuesday, July 21, around 100 firefighters reportedly battled a blaze near one of airport’s car parks, which spread to a building after originating from a brush fire, BBC News reports.
Officials announced that two of the fire fighters had died. On July 22, Bordeaux Airport issued the following statement on social media: “Yesterday, in the face of the fire that occurred near the airport, Bordeaux Airport would like to acknowledge the commitment and courage of the firefighters from the SSLIA of the platform, the SDIS and all the services mobilized to protect people, infrastructure and the environment. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to them.
“Today, the entire airport community extends its sincerest condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the two SDIS firefighters from Gironde who died in the line of duty and wants to pay tribute to their dedication and daily commitment to serving everyone.”
According to FlightRadar24, only two flights have been cancelled from Bordeaux Airport today. These were the 7.15am easyJet flight U21863 to Hurghada, and the 9.20am Air France flight AF7653 to Nice.
On Friday, July 24, the UK Foreign Office issued an update for Brits in, or travelling to the region, It stated: “Wildfires are affecting parts of Gironde, including areas around Saumos, Le Porge and Lège-Cap-Ferret, where French authorities have evacuated campsites, tourist accommodation and some residential areas. A separate wildfire is also affecting parts of Landes, including Biscarrosse and surrounding areas.
“Access to affected areas may be restricted and roads may close at short notice. If you are in the area or planning to travel there, follow the advice of local authorities, monitor local media, and check with your accommodation or travel provider before travelling. “
It added: “If you are affected by a wildfire or other emergency, call 18 (fire service) or 112 (emergency services).”
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