FLIGHTS to and from Bristol Airport have been suspended after a defect was discovered on the runway.

Airport officials halted operations at 6.08pm on Friday (August 7) while the affected section of the runway is inspected and repaired.

Bristol Airport said all flights have been suspended until at least 6am on Saturday, with arriving aircraft being diverted to other airports and departures cancelled.

A spokesperson for the airport said: "Due to a defect on the runway, we have temporarily suspended operations as a precaution, in order to inspect and repair the section affected.

"We apologise for any inconvenience. Safety is always our number one priority.

"Customers should refer to their airlines with any flight queries."

Passengers due to travel are advised to check with their airline before heading to the airport, as disruption is expected to continue until repairs have been completed.