NATS outage disrupts UK flights, leaving holidaymakers facing potential costs

A technical failure at UK air traffic control provider NATS has caused widespread flight disruption on Tuesday, affecting airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, and Edinburgh, as well as Dublin in Ireland.

Departures have been restricted as engineers work to restore normal operations, with British Airways cancelling several short-haul services and easyJet warning of further cancellations. Passengers have been advised to check with their airlines before travelling.

Disruption could result in missed connections, additional accommodation and transport costs, or lost holiday arrangements. However, whether these expenses are recoverable through travel insurance will depend on individual policy terms.

Airlines may have obligations to provide care, including meals and accommodation, during qualifying delays. Statutory compensation may not apply where disruption is caused by circumstances outside an airline’s control.

Travellers affected by the NATS disruption should retain receipts and evidence of cancelled or delayed flights and check their policies for cover relating to delays, missed connections, and additional expenses.

Global airline capacity rose 2.6% year on year in August, but regional disparities could complicate the risk outlook for travel insurers, according to travel data provider OAG.