UK airports are being urged by MPs to create contingency plans for major disruption, following an incident last Wednesday that saw over 2,000 flights grounded or severely delayed. The disruption was attributed to a Nats “technical glitch” which left hundreds of passengers stranded, particularly at locations like Heathrow Terminal 3.
Ruth Cadbury, chair of the transport committee, stated in the House of Commons that airports should have plans in place for such events. She highlighted the need for regular information from airlines and the provision of essential passenger needs, including toilets, refreshments, and comfortable sleeping arrangements.
Ms Cadbury suggested that airports could learn from local authorities by having supplies of items like camp beds, emergency drinks, snacks, and baby food. She also questioned whether trained staff should be allocated to support passengers during these times.
The recent disruption marks the third instance of widespread flight issues due to air traffic control technical faults in the past four years, following similar incidents in 2023 and 2025. Nats is currently on a seven-day countdown to provide answers regarding the latest technical fault.