Gatwick Airport has once again topped the list as the worst-performing airport in the UK for flight delays, according to newly released figures from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
The average delay across all UK airports in 2024 was 18 minutes and 24 seconds, slightly down from 20 minutes and 42 seconds in 2023.
Travel Industry Voices Frustration
Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of the Advantage Travel Partnership, criticised the ongoing issues, saying:
“Passengers expect and deserve not to spend hours stuck in terminals with little information or support. Reliable service, clear communication and efficient operations should be the standard, not the exception.”
She warned that the emotional toll on travellers—many of whom save all year for their holidays—should not be underestimated. “Disruption can make people feel like their time and investment aren’t being respected,” she added.
With a hectic summer period expected, Lo Bue-Said urged airports and airlines to act now to rebuild consumer confidence and avoid further reputational damage.
Gatwick Response
A Gatwick Airport spokesperson responded to the data, acknowledging the continuing challenges:
“Air traffic control restrictions in other parts of Europe have continued to impact the airport. Together with our airlines, we’ve put in place a robust plan to improve on-time performance further in 2025.”
Gatwick’s ongoing issues have sparked renewed calls for infrastructure upgrades and better planning to ensure Britain’s airports can cope with demand.
