Flights out of West Midlands returning to normal after issue - but still some delays

Departures from the region’s two biggest airports have been getting back to normal after a day of chaos and disruption.

Flights were seen taking off from Birmingham Airport and East Midlands Airport on Wednesday morning, having seen delays and cancellations throughout yesterday from the major air traffic control disruption across the UK.

The disruption was caused by a technical issue affecting UK air traffic control services operated by NATS and while the immediate problem has been resolved, airports across the country are continuing to deal with the backlog created by the disruption.

In Birmingham, flights were being hit with delays ranging from 15 minutes to much longer delays, with the 7.15am flight to Rhodes especially affected and delayed until 4.20pm.

Other flights hit with long delays included the 9.40am Jet2 flight to Verona, which has been delayed until 1.35pm, and a Ryanair flight to Alicante which was set to fly at 11am, but has been delayed until 1pm.

A spokesman for Birmingham Airport said: “The technical issue affecting NATS air traffic services was resolved yesterday evening.

“There is a minimal knock-on effect and there may be disruption to some flights.

“Passengers are advised to check their flight status directly with their airline.”

At East Midlands Airport, a Ryanair flight to Dublin had been delayed from 10.30am to 1.30pm, but other flights out were flying out on or close to the scheduled departure times.

The airport has still advised passengers to check with airlines about any potential delays or issues.

A spokesman for East Midlands Airport said: “Following yesterday’s NATS air traffic control issue, the airport is operation as normal.

“Those travelling today should continue with their journey plans and check with their airline for the latest information on their flight, as usual.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding.”