High winds at LF Wade International Airport have forced the diversion of three flights away from the island.

Among the flights affected were passenger flights from Toronto and New York.

The Skyport airport duty officer said this afternoon: “Runway cross winds in excess of 40 knots impacted flight operations at the LF Wade International Airport today, causing several disruptions.

“Delta flight 437 from New York had to divert back to JFK with a new estimated arrival time of 3pm. Air Canada flight 942 from Toronto had to divert to Philadelphia and is now expected to arrive at 4.30pm, while the CargoJet flight from Newark International had to return to New Jersey after opting not to land.

“A revised arrival time has not yet been confirmed. All other scheduled, arriving flights have operated as per normal. Passengers are encouraged to contact their respective airlines for any flight updates. ”

According to the Bermuda Weather Service website, gusts reaching 49 knots were reported at 11.10am, however since then wind speeds have reduced notably. As of 1.36pm, gusts had fallen to 30 knots.

The public forecast stated that gale force northerly winds were expected over the course of the day, easing later in the afternoon. A gale warning is in effect for the island, along with a small craft warning.