UK air traffic failure grounds over 2,100 flights, hits 330,000 passengers

A major UK air traffic control technical failure has caused over 2,100 flight cancellations across two days, disrupting travel for more than 330,000 passengers, with authorities ruling out a cyberattack as the cause. The National Air Traffic Services (NATS) is investigating the fault that led to 1,746 cancellations on Tuesday and 399 on Wednesday, primarily affecting London Heathrow. British Airways cancelled nearly 550 flights, and passengers reported chaotic scenes, including long tarmac delays and unavailable hotels. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has ordered an independent review into the incident, with findings expected within six months. NATS chief Martin Rolfe accepts full responsibility but won't comment on resignation calls from Ryanair, while compensation is unlikely as the failure may be deemed "exceptional circumstances."