Runways at LF Wade International Airport are open in case of diverted flights — but the terminal building has experienced “major flooding”, according to airport CEO Aaron Adderley.

“The airfield is open for emergency services, diversions and private jets,” Mr Adderley said this morning. “But the terminal building itself has experienced major flooding, including the immigrations hall and Customs hall. We have to sort that out before we can allow passengers through.

“Because of the flooding, our fire alarms have also gone off. We’re working hard to get it all back up and running.”

Flights are currently on “rolling delays”. There have been difficulties this morning with the airport’s website, and travellers should check with airlines directly to check on the status of flights.

A statement released this afternoon by the Department of Airport Operations added: “The Department of Airport Operations is advising that there was extensive damage to the roof over the Arrivals Area of the L.F. Wade International Airport Terminal Building caused by Tropical Storm Fay.

“The damaged roof exposed part of the main sprinkler system causing major damage to one of the sprinkler heads that ultimately led to thousands of gallons of water gushing out into upper administrative offices and into the passenger arrival area on the ground floor.

“The Immigration and Customs Halls experienced extensive flooding that quickly knocked out critical passenger processing computer systems. Once the sprinkler systems were isolated and shut down, Airport cleaning crews were on hand to commence the major clean-up effort which is expected to continue through this afternoon. Airport officials are aiming to have the Terminal building re-opened by 6.00 p.m.

“Meanwhile, the storm has caused some damage to the Airport radar which is currently being assessed; however, the airfield itself was relatively unscathed and once winds diminished to an acceptable level and a full assessment of airfield assets was completed, the L.F. Wade International Airport resumed operations at 12 noon for non-commercial flights only.”