Flights departing Birmingham Airport are experiencing delays this afternoon following a technical issue with air traffic control systems. The disruption is being investigated by NATS, the country's air traffic control service, which has engineers on site working to resolve the problem.
Birmingham Airport has issued an apology to holidaymakers affected by the disruption, which is impacting a number of departing flights. The airport has advised travellers to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight information and updates.
Airport statement on technical issue
In a statement posted on X, Birmingham Airport said: "There is currently an air traffic technical issue affecting airspace in the south of the UK, which is impacting a number of departing flights."
The airport added: "We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Those due to travel today should still arrive in line with Airline advice, and contact their airline directly for the latest flight information and updates."
NATS response and passenger advice
NATS, the organisation responsible for air traffic control across the UK, confirmed it is investigating the technical issue. In a statement, NATS said: "We are investigating a technical issue which is causing some disruption to flight departures."
"Our engineers are on site, and we will provide an update as soon as we can. We apologise for the delay this will cause to journeys. Passengers should check with their airline on the status of their flight. We will provide updates on www.nats.aero and on X – @NATS," the statement continued.
Impact on travellers and next steps
The technical issue is affecting airspace in the south of the UK, with Birmingham Airport among the airports experiencing delays. Passengers due to travel today are advised to arrive at the airport in line with their airline's advice and to contact their airline directly for the most up-to-date information.
This is a breaking news story, and further updates are expected as NATS engineers continue their work on site.
