Queensland's holiday coast airports closed by tropical cyclone Yasi

Australia's Queensland airports have been forced to close due to the category-five tropical cyclone Yasi (smh.com.au, 2-Feb-2011). Cairns and Townsville airports closed at 10:00 on 2-Feb-2011, Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine) closed on 1-Feb-2011 and Hamilton Island's airstrip closed at 15:00 on 1-Feb-2011. Jetstar, Virgin Blue and Qantas have ceased services in the area. [more - Qantas]

Jetstar announced (02-Feb-2011) an extension of flexible arrangements for passengers travelling on domestic or international flights, or Jetstar Holidays bookings to and from the five destinations. The flexible arrangements allow a refund or a change to travel dates and will be extended until 10-Feb-2011. Revised travel must be completed prior to 05-Apr-2011. Jetstar will not operate services to any of the airports until 04-Feb-2010. [more Jetstar]

Virgin Blue announced services from Mackay, Rockhampton, Fraser Coast (Hervey Bay) and Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore) are unaffected, though the airline is monitoring the impact on Mackay of cyclone Yasi (Sydney Morning Herald, 02-Feb-2011).