Airlines criticise air traffic control as second glitch causes more disruption in UK
Summary
A second technical problem in two weeks with the UK's air traffic control system caused major flight delays and cancellations across parts of the UK. National Air Traffic Services (Nats), which manages air traffic control, said a "connectivity issue" at Prestwick was to blame, and airlines have criticized Nats for the repeated disruptions.Key Facts
- A technical fault at Prestwick air traffic control caused flight delays and cancellations in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England.
- At least 200 flights were canceled or did not fly on Monday due to the problem.
- EasyJet, Wizz Air, Ryanair, British Airways, and Jet2 were among the most affected airlines.
- Nats explained the issue was separate from a previous software defect at Swanwick that caused 2,000 cancellations earlier in September.
- Airlines expressed loss of confidence in Nats’ leadership and called for urgent reform of the air traffic control system.
- The UK Civil Aviation Authority said passengers were likely ineligible for compensation because the issue is classed as an "extraordinary circumstance."
- Nats apologized and said safety was their top priority, working to restore normal operations quickly.
- UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander acknowledged the flight disruptions were frustrating for travelers.
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