London Gatwick Airport experienced the worst flight delays in the UK last year, with departures averaging nearly 27 minutes behind schedule, a recent Press Association analysis of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) data reveals. The analysis highlights that Gatwick, the UK’s second busiest airport, was significantly impacted by air traffic control staff shortages not only in Europe but also within its own control tower.
This persistent problem has led Gatwick to engage closely with airline partners in efforts to improve punctuality. The airport’s challenges were exacerbated by factors beyond its control, including air traffic restrictions and weather conditions across Europe.
Following Gatwick, Luton and Manchester airports also reported substantial delays, with average delays of almost 23 minutes and nearly 22 minutes, respectively. The report underlines a broader issue across UK airports with an average delay time of about 20 minutes and 42 seconds last year, a slight improvement from 2022’s 23-minute average delay, which was primarily due to a surge in post-pandemic travel.
Despite the delays, a significant portion of flights managed to depart on time. For instance, a spokesperson from Luton Airport pointed out that the reported figures might be misleading without proper context, noting that out of over 50,000 flights, only a small fraction experienced delays directly within the airport’s control.
In contrast, Belfast City Airport boasted the best performance, with an average delay of just over 12 minutes. Close behind were Liverpool John Lennon and East Midlands airports, with delays of approximately 13 and 15 minutes, respectively.
Amid ongoing challenges, Gatwick has also announced a temporary cap on flights in an attempt to manage short-notice cancellations and delays effectively, part of a broader strategy to enhance operational resilience. The airport is also committing to a six-year capital investment program aimed at upgrading infrastructure and facilities to further mitigate delay issues.
The data also highlights that while air traffic control issues are often deemed “extraordinary circumstances” exempting passengers from compensation, disruptions within an airline’s control are subject to consumer law protections, including refreshments, accommodation, and potential financial compensation.
