Rail passengers are facing major disruption in Greater Manchester following a major signalling fault. Trains are being cancelled and delayed this morning (January 7) as emergency works are needed on the railway at Manchester Airport.
National Rail says disruption is set to continue until 9.30am. The issue is affecting several services which run to and from Manchester Airport via Piccadilly – meaning many commuters heading into the city centre will be disrupted.
Northern, TransPennine Express and Transport for Wales services which run to Manchester Airport are all affected. Lines were forced to close at Manchester Airport earlier this morning due to the issue.
All railway lines have since reopened, but passengers are warned to expect continuing disruption. A National Rail spokesperson said: “Lines have reopened following a fault with the signalling system at Manchester Airport.
“Trains may still be cancelled, delayed by up to 30 minutes or revised. Disruption is expected until 9.30am.”
A spokesperson for Manchester Piccadilly wrote on X: “We need to replace a part of the signalling system to get you moving again. Please check @nationalrailenq for updates on @TPExpressTrains @northernassist and @tfwrail services to and from the airport.”
Manchester Airport covered in snow in the early hours
(Image: Barbara Lowndes-Buckley)
Transport services have been hit by widespread disruption over the last week amid flooding, snow and ice. Heavy snow hit Manchester Airport overnight, with the runways forced to close for around three hours earlier today and travellers warned to expect delays.
A yellow weather warning for snow and ice in Greater Manchester remains in force until 10am.