Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted flights delayed by air traffic control fault
National Air Traffic Services is investigating a technical issue affecting departures from major London airports.
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The central claim is attributed to NATS, but key facts are hedged with "reportedly".
Higher is stronger
The article provides specific figures for delays and names the responsible body, but lacks quotes from affected parties.
Higher is stronger
The headline promises live updates and major disruption, which the article delivers, but uses sensational language.
Lower is better
Departing flights have been halted at Heathrow and Gatwick airports following a technical problem impacting air traffic control systems. Aircraft carrying passengers are waiting on the ground as the disruption unfolds across major UK airports. National Air Traffic Services (NATS) confirmed at 1.46pm that it was investigating the technical issue and had engineers on site working to resolve the problem.
Significant Departure Delays
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The technical fault has led to substantial delays for departing flights. Gatwick Airport is experiencing average delays of one hour and 25 minutes. Heathrow Airport has seen average delays of one hour and 12 minutes. Stansted Airport is reporting the longest delays, with departing flights running an average of one hour and 40 minutes late, according to FlightAware data reported by MyLondon.
NATS has issued an apology for the disruption and has urged passengers to verify the status of their flights directly with their respective airlines. Further updates are expected as engineers continue their work to fix the technical problem. Passengers travelling from Gatwick have been advised to check in as normal but to contact their airline before travelling.
Questions this report answers
+Why are flights being disrupted at Heathrow and Gatwick?
Flights are grounded and experiencing delays due to a technical problem affecting air traffic control systems. National Air Traffic Services (NATS) is investigating the issue and has engineers working on site to resolve it.
+How long are the delays at the affected airports?
As of the latest reports, Gatwick Airport is seeing average departure delays of one hour and 25 minutes. Heathrow Airport's average departure delays are one hour and 12 minutes, while Stansted Airport is experiencing the longest delays at an average of one hour and 40 minutes.
+What should passengers do if their flight is affected?
Passengers are advised to check the status of their flight directly with their airline for the most up-to-date information. Those travelling from Gatwick are also advised to check in as normal but to contact their airline before setting off.
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