UK: All international flights affected as Nats Swanwick air traffic control down

ALL international flights in the UK have been affected after NATS, which operates two air traffic control centres in the UK, is down.

NATS issues statement  

NATS has issued a statement in this regard, saying, “As a result of a technical issue at NATS Swanwick air traffic control centre, we are limiting the number of aircraft flying in the London control area in order to ensure safety, which is always our first priority.”

“We apologise for any delays this may cause. Our engineers are working hard to resolve the problem as quickly as possible and we are working closely with airlines to help minimise disruption. At this stage we cannot say how long it will be before operations are back to normal. Please check with your airline on the status of your flight,” the statement continued. 

Gatwick Airport issues statement

Gatwick Airport also issued a statement about international flights being affected in the region. 

“A technical issue impacting NATS is affecting all outbound flights across the UK. There are currently no departures from London Gatwick while the situation is being resolved. We are working with NATS to resume flights as quickly as possible. Inbound flights are still landing at the airport. Passengers should check the status of their flights with their airline,” the statement by Gatwick Airport read. 

Newcastle International Airport has also issued a statement on X in this regard, saying, “An issue in London’s airspace is impacting national airport operations and all departures are currently suspended. We will provide an update in due course.”

“A technical issue briefly grounded and diverted flights in Britain on Wednesday before engineers were able to restore the system, the air traffic control operator said. Airports said it would take time for the disruption to clear, with many planes and crew out of position. The National Air Traffic Service, or NATS, said the glitch happened at its control centre at Swanwick, southwest of London, and required the service to limit the number of aircraft flying to ensure safety,” a PTI report reads. 

"I am aware of a technical issue that impacted NATS' operations, causing travel disruption this afternoon. I have been informed that systems have now been restored but continued disruption is expected, and passengers should check with individual airports for advice," Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said, according to the PTI report.