An update and recap from SOF where BA891 was cancelled earlier....

For an out-station the service here has been terrific. The Pilots and Cabin Crew kept everyone updated as much as they could. Cabin Crew did beverage service, followed by meal service once they realised the delay would be long. Additionally, the Captain authorised additional water to be brought on so everyone on the aircraft got 2 bottles of water while we waited.

Eventually the crew had organised for us to deplane and go back to the terminal. Busses greeted our aircraft at the remote stand and we were all loaded on. After the short trip to the terminal most people hung out at the gate and the people with lounge access went to the lounge.

The airport made several announcements for passengers from BA 891 to go to Gate 3 where refreshments would be served. The announcements were made every 15 mins for about an hour. After the hour had elapsed, the airport then made several announcements that BA891 had been cancelled and instructed passengers to meet ground staff at passport control.

At passport control the ground staff gave each passenger Perspex "Transit" cards that we would use to give the police at passport control. After that, the Perspex transit cards were collected and we made our way to the baggage carousel. About 10 mins later our bags came out and we were instructed to go to the BA desk in the departures area.

In the departures area there were 5 ground staff waiting for us. Everyone lined up in a very British type line to have our details recorded. Maybe 30 mins after that the ground staff advised us of the hotel BA would put us up in. They apologised that they could not arrange busses at such short notice and to please take taxis to the hotel. GIven the trip was about 5 euro, no big deal.

At the hotel no issues at all. Check in staff knew we were coming. At the desk all I had to say was cancelled BA flight and that was it. Dinner and Breakfast included.

We await the news from BA tomorrow morning. For me, I can't wait for BA to sort their systems out and have booked alternative travel.

Overall the way that the BA crew on our flight conducted themselves and looked after their passengers is outstanding! The BA contract staff on the ground here in SOF equally outstanding.

I realise that I have been lucky and got a great bunch of people who just wanted to help and I feel terribly for everyone who is stuck in really awful situations.