A technical problem with the air traffic control provider Nats has caused widespread flight cancellations and delays across airports in the UK and Ireland.

Flights across the UK and Ireland are facing significant disruption due to a technical issue affecting the flight processing system of air traffic control provider Nats. Around 200 flights have been cancelled, with major airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Dublin reporting delays. Nats has confirmed it is investigating the problem and working to restore normal operations.

Impact on Airlines and Airports

British Airways, Ryanair, Easyjet, Lufthansa, KLM, and Swiss Air have all confirmed flight cancellations. Ryanair reported that it alone had cancelled more than 50 flights. At Heathrow, departures were initially paused around lunchtime and continue to face disruption, with very few flights currently taking off. Gatwick, Stansted, East Midlands, Manchester, and Belfast airports have also advised passengers to check their flight status due to the ongoing issue. Landings are being restricted as a result of the limited takeoff capacity, which has also prevented some flights from departing at overseas locations. Passengers currently on aircraft have reported delays, with some flights sitting on the tarmac for hours while waiting for information from air traffic control.

Response from Nats and Government

Nats stated that its engineers are on-site working to resolve the issue with its flight processing system. The organization has apologized for the disruption and advised travelers to monitor its official website and social media for updates. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander acknowledged the situation and noted the frustration it is causing for passengers.