Gatwick Airport Faces Flight Chaos Due to Staff Shortage
- At least 100 flights were cancelled at London Gatwick due to a shortage of air traffic control staff, affecting around 15,000 passengers.
- EasyJet was the most affected airline, with 64 flights grounded, while British Airways, Vueling, and Wizz Air also faced cancellations.
- The situation has led to significant financial losses for airlines and echoes previous disruptions at the airport.
London Gatwick Airport has faced significant disruptions due to a shortage of air traffic control staff, resulting in the cancellation of at least 100 flights. This situation has affected around 15,000 passengers and has led to substantial financial losses for airlines. EasyJet, which operates a large number of flights from Gatwick, was particularly hard hit, with approximately 64 flights cancelled on a peak travel day. Other airlines, including British Airways, Vueling, and Wizz Air, also reported cancellations. The air traffic control provider, Nats, indicated that the restrictions were necessary to maintain safety amid short-notice staff absences. These issues were compounded by existing restrictions due to adverse weather conditions affecting the UK and Europe. Nats has expressed regret over the inconvenience caused and is working with airlines to minimize disruption. Passengers affected by the cancellations are entitled to accommodations, meals, and rebooking options under air passenger rights regulations. EasyJet has communicated with its customers regarding their options and is providing support where necessary. This incident mirrors previous disruptions experienced at Gatwick, highlighting ongoing challenges in air traffic management. The financial implications for airlines are significant, as they must cover costs for stranded passengers and manage lost revenue from abandoned journeys. The airport has apologized for the impact on travelers and advised them to contact their respective airlines for further assistance.