Airlines to Pay for UK Flight Control Meltdown, Says IATA

The UK’s National Air Traffic Services (NATS) has been blamed for a major meltdown that caused thousands of flight cancellations and delays earlier this week. According to British media, the incident is estimated to cost airlines close to 100 million British pounds.

NATS has said that the problem was caused by a software error, and that it has been fixed. However, following the incident, affected airlines highlighted that the passenger rights system is not fit for purpose, and that they are being forced to bear the brunt of the costs.

“Airlines will bear significant sums in care and assistance charges, on top of the costs of disruption to crew and aircraft schedules. But it will cost NATS nothing,” said Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Willie Walsh.

Willie Walsh, Director General ,IATA. Photo source: IATA.

Walsh called on the UK government to rebalance the passenger rights system so that it is fair for all. “Until that happens, I fear we will see a continuing failure to improve the reliability, cost efficiency, and environmental performance of air traffic control,” he added.

The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is investigating the incident. It has said that it will take action if it finds that NATS has not met its obligations.

The meltdown comes at a time when the UK aviation industry is already under pressure. The industry is facing rising costs and competition from low-cost carriers. The latest incident is likely to add to the challenges facing the industry.

In the meantime, passengers who have been affected by the cancellations and delays are advised to contact their airline for assistance.