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Flights have been grounded at Heathrow and Gatwick airports due to a technical problem affecting air traffic control systems. National Air Traffic Services is investigating the issue, which has led to significant departure delays at multiple London airports.
A Boeing 747 cargo plane flying from Heathrow to Hong Kong declared a Mayday after a series of electrical failures. Water had entered the aircraft before departure due to a cargo door being left open in the rain, causing critical system malfunctions.
A Unite survey of Heathrow workers found 82% had experienced problems with workplace facilities and 61% described toilets as unclean. The union is pressing Heathrow Airport Limited for a review and rapid improvements, while the operator cites £1.7 billion revenue in the first half of the year.
Holidaymakers flying from Heathrow Airport are being warned about a common packing error involving lithium-battery devices. The UK Civil Aviation Authority advises travellers to keep items like phones and power banks in their hand luggage to prevent safety risks and potential delays.
Heathrow handled 7.86 million passengers in July 2026, 1.5% fewer than last year, while Istanbul Airport recorded 8.15 million. The decline follows a 20.2% drop in Middle East routes and ongoing capacity constraints. A public consultation on Heathrow’s expansion is underway.
A grassfire near Heathrow Airport forced the temporary closure of one runway on Wednesday evening, diverting at least 18 inbound flights. London Fire Brigade extinguished the blaze within 90 minutes, and both runways are now operational, though delays may persist.
Heathrow Airport has told all passengers to check their travel insurance covers existing medical conditions. Officials warn failing to declare conditions could invalidate policies, leaving travellers liable for costs exceeding £25,000 for treatment and repatriation.

All lanes of the M25 near Heathrow Airport were stopped on 3 August 2026 after a crash, causing severe delays. Emergency services attended the scene, though details of injuries or vehicles involved remain unclear. Drivers were advised to avoid the area.
Georgie Buxton died at St Mary's Hospital on 7 July after an explosion occurred while he was inspecting a fuel leak at Heathrow Airport. The Metropolitan Police and the Health and Safety Executive have launched a criminal investigation into the incident.
Heathrow passengers face decades of higher fares after the Civil Aviation Authority permitted Heathrow Airport Limited to recover £320m in early expansion costs. The regulator approved the move despite warnings from airlines that the decision could make the third runway project unaffordable for consumers.
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