HUNDREDS of flights have been grounded across the UK following a major ATC failure.
Here is everything you need to know if your flight has been delayed or cancelled.
What is happening right now at UK airports?
Airports across the UK are experiencing huge delays and cancellations with passengers reporting being stuck parked at gates due to Air Traffic Control outages.
It comes after NATS experienced a technical issue earlier today halting departures at UK airports.
NATS stated: “We have identified that the issue was in our flight processing system.
“Our engineers are on site and working urgently to resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
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“We recognise the ongoing disruption to travel, for which we sincerely apologise.
“Flights are still departing and airspace is open, but recovery will take some time. We will provide further updates as soon as possible.
“Passengers should check the status of their flight with their airline. We will provide further updates as soon as we have confirmed information, at http://www.nats.aero and on X at @NATS.”
Are flights being affected?
Flights are being impacted across UK airports London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester.
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More than 20 flights departing London Heathrow have already been cancelled.
Manchester Airport has advised passengers to “check the latest status of their flight with their airline” amid the turmoil caused by the air traffic control failure.
The airport said it would “Continue to monitor the situation and share further updates as more information becomes available.”
What are my rights if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
Airlines have a duty of care they must offer passengers affected by delays or cancellations.
The Civil Aviation Authority states: “If your flight is delayed, and UK261 applies to it, your airline must look after you while you are delayed.
“This includes providing you with food and drink based on how long your delay is, and accommodation if you are delayed overnight.”
If your flight is cancelled, they must also offer a refund or an alternative flight, even with another airline.
If you accept a refund, they no longer need to offer you any additional forms of care, such as hotels or food vouchers.
Can I claim compensation?
Airlines are not required to offer any compensation if the situation is deemed “extraordinary circumstances”.
This can mean anything out of the airline’s control like extreme weather – or air traffic control failures.
As a result, the current NATS technical outage is classed as an “extraordinary circumstance”.
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In the last major NATS outage in 2023, travellers did not receive compensation.