Ryanair Boss Slams Gatwick Chaos, Demands Nats Chief’s Head
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has blasted Martin Rolfe, boss of National Air Traffic Services (Nats), calling for his resignation after more havoc at Gatwick Airport.
Sunday, September 8, saw fresh flight delays and cancellations triggered by air traffic control (ATC) staff shortages. Thousands of passengers were left stranded once again.
O’Leary Condemns “Long Line of Cock-Ups” at Gatwick
O’Leary accused Nats of a chronic failure to manage ATC staffing at Gatwick. He said:
“UK Nats staff shortages caused multiple flight delays and cancellations at Gatwick Airport yesterday. This is the latest in a long line of cock-ups by UK Nats, which has yet again disrupted multiple flights and thousands of passengers at Gatwick. Airlines and passengers deserve better.”
O’Leary ramped up the pressure, demanding Rolfe step aside immediately so a “competent” leader can take charge. If not, the new Transport Secretary Louise Haigh should sack him.
Nats Vows to Solve Staffing Crisis, But Critics Aren’t Convinced
Nats insists it’s working to fix staffing gaps under a plan agreed with Gatwick when it assumed control of ATC services in October 2022. This includes training new air traffic controllers.
However, both Nats and Gatwick have yet to respond to O’Leary’s call for Rolfe to quit, leaving airline chiefs and frustrated travellers waiting for answers.
With Gatwick chaos showing no signs of easing, the battle over who is to blame is set to rage on.
