Flights diverted after runway closed due to 'defect'

Newcastle International Airport said five flights opted to divert on Wednesday evening

A number of flights were diverted at Newcastle International Airport after its runway was temporarily closed.

The airport said the closure was for a "short period" of time on Wednesday evening while a "defect" was inspected.

A spokesperson said checks were completed and the runway has since reopened.

"Unfortunately as a result, five flights opted to divert during the short closure," they added. "We apologise to any passengers affected."

The flights were diverted to Edinburgh, Manchester and Teesside airports.

The airport said passengers due to travel on flights which have been cancelled were "being safely escorted out of the terminal".