UK Passengers Face Delays After Network-Wide Air Traffic Control Fault
UK Passengers Face Delays After Network-Wide Air Traffic Control Fault
Passengers flying to and from the United Kingdom face delays today after reports of a network-wide failure of the country’s air traffic control systems. This news comes as hundreds of thousands of passengers fly home following the bank holiday weekend.
Technical issues
Sky News reports that several passengers on varying airlines have been told that the UK air traffic control (ATC) network is down, disrupting their flights. Subsequently, the National Air Traffic Services (NATS), the UK’s leading provider of air traffic control services, has issued a statement on the matter.
Airlines have also started sharing updates on the issue on their social media platforms. For instance, Loganair shared on X, formerly known on Twitter, that cross-country and international flights are subject to delays.
International impact
The issues could have a significant impact on operations not only within the UK but across Europe and beyond. According to The Independent, several aircraft on the ground are being temporarily held and some of those already in the skies are likely to be diverted to other airports in other countries.
Looking at London Gatwick Airport’s arrival board as an example, many of the flights arriving are expected to land late. However, there doesn’t seem to be a massive impact on departures right now. Within the last hour, only a handful of departing flights were delayed, including EZY8605 to Pula, BA2604 to Rhodes, EZY8029 to Mahón, and VY6018 to A Coruña.
Notably, Gatwick Airport’s airlines and passengers were previously relieved that the threat of bank holiday strikes was off after workers agreed on a pay deal. However, they have now been met with another challenge.