NATS flight-processing fault: knock-on transfer delays

A National Air Traffic Services (NATS) flight-processing fault on 8 September cancelled more than 1,000 UK flights. Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham were worst hit; London City, Luton, Stansted, Bristol and Southampton were also affected. The fault was fixed around 7:34pm BST on 8 September, but knock-ons continue today (9 September), with around 177 Wednesday cancellations flagged — mostly at Heathrow.

Bournemouth Airport is mostly normal this morning. For airport transfers across Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch, the practical bit is simple: send us your latest flight number, keep the pickup flexible, and allow a bit of extra time while the network clears.

If your flight is delayed or cancelled

• Check your airline's app or website first. Airlines post new times and rebooking options there before anywhere else.
• Send us the new flight number. If you are rebooked onto a different flight, tell us so the pickup moves with it.
• Flight tracking covers the return. For arrivals, we track the flight and adjust the pickup time to when it actually lands.
• Cancelled altogether? Let us know as soon as you can so we can rearrange; see our booking terms.

Why delays ripple for days

When air traffic control systems have a fault, aircraft and crews end up in the wrong places. Even after the fault is fixed, airlines can take a day or two to get schedules back to normal, so allow extra time and keep an eye on your flight.

If you are flying today or tomorrow from or to a London or regional airport, Book now or call 01202 028334 and we will time the meet-and-greet around the knock-ons.