UK air traffic control fault cancels 200 flights at Heathrow and Gatwick

bbc.com — September 8, 2026 at 04:01 PM UTC

A technical problem at UK air traffic control provider Nats has caused heavy disruption, with around 200 flights cancelled at airports including Heathrow and Gatwick. British Airways and Ryanair confirmed cancellations, with Ryanair scrapping over 50 flights. Easyjet, Lufthansa, KLM and Swiss Air also cancelled flights, while landings were restricted and passengers advised to contact airlines. Nats said engineers were investigating a flight processing system issue and working urgently to resume operations. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander acknowledged the frustration, while airports in Ireland and across the UK reported delays.

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