Travelers aiming to fly out before the New Year faced significant delays, as dense fog led to disruptions at the UK’s busiest airports.
Gatwick, Heathrow, and Manchester, the three primary airports in the UK, had to cancel various flights on Friday, with nearly all planned departures experiencing substantial delays due to the adverse weather conditions.
Throughout the day, nearly every flight from Manchester airport was postponed, with most delays exceeding two hours.
Numerous flights heading to locations such as Guernsey, Dublin, Munich, and Hurghada were also delayed for more than four hours.
A similar situation unfolded at both Gatwick and Heathrow, with travelers sharing descriptions of chaotic environments as they awaited news on whether their flights would proceed at all.
The main air traffic control (ATC) agency, Nats, indicated that temporary air traffic limitations were implemented at multiple airports due to extensive fog to “ensure safety”.
A representative stated: “We are continuously assessing the situation and have a Met Office specialist integrated within our operations to guarantee we possess the latest information available. Our teams are cooperating closely with the airports and airlines to minimize disruption.”
The UK’s largest low-cost carrier, easyJet, reported experiencing interference to its flight schedule due to low visibility. A spokesperson remarked: “Although this is beyond our control, we are striving to lessen the effects of the delays.”
A person caught in the turmoil was John Mitchell, 47, who was eager to return to Aberdeen after learning about his father’s passing on Friday morning.
Mr. Mitchell, who had been in London visiting friends, secured a last-minute easyJet flight from Gatwick airport on Friday that saw a delay of over three hours owing to the fog.
He mentioned he was “utterly heartbroken” and wished his flight, now postponed until 10:53 PM, would indeed depart on Friday.
“I was meant to stay in London until Sunday, but I’ve encountered a family loss. My dad passed away this morning,” Mr. Mitchell conveyed to the PA news agency.
“The flight I arranged departs at 7:35 PM but is now projected to leave at 10:53 PM – close to three and a half hours delayed. I’m anxious because Aberdeen airport enforces restrictions for late arrivals.
“I’m utterly heartbroken.”
A London Gatwick spokesperson articulated: “Temporary air traffic limitations have been implemented due to fog resulting in poor visibility.
“Some flights may be delayed throughout the day. London Gatwick expresses its regret for any inconvenience. Passengers should reach out to their airline for additional information.”
As night fell, a growing number of flights were canceled from Gatwick, Manchester, and Heathrow. More cancellations were anticipated as flying restrictions came into effect later in the evening.
Travelers attempting to exit the airport encountered increased frustration as they reported “massive queues” and “lack of communication” while trying to retrieve their luggage.
One passenger attempting to depart Gatwick expressed on social media: “@British_Airways an absolute disgrace tonight at @Gatwick_Airport Cancelled flight, then left passengers stranded in departures with no way to leave the airport and collect luggage. No communication, nobody at the counters. Complete chaos.”
Earlier in the day, travelers in Manchester expressed their frustrations on social media, with one person stating on X that they were coping with several hours of delay but found no space within airport lounges.