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03/06/2004
Air traffic chaos in UK as computer fails
A one-hour failure of the main air traffic control computer system has led to massive delays at Britain's airports.
When the National Air Traffic Services (Nats) computer system failed, all take-offs scheduled after 7am this morning had to be delayed. Air traffic controller were forced to use the manual back-up system to safely control all aircraft in UK airspace and guide those approaching airports to safe landings.
A spokesperson for British Airways said that due to a Nats computer problem earlier this morning their flights and those of other airlines were expected to be subject to disruption and cancellations today.
By 8am this morning, British Airways, had cancelled seven shorthaul flights out of London Heathrow and three shorthaul flights out of London Gatwick.
While flights into and out of all UK airports are suffering from delays, the temporary computer problem - caused by the testing of an upgrade to the computer system - has now ended. Flights are expected to return to normal later on today.
However, British Airways and other airlines operating scheduled UK flights today have advised customers to check if their flight is operating before leaving for the airport.
Mervyn Walker, British Airways Director UK Airports, said: "We apologise to our customers for the disruption caused today. We are doing everything we can to minimise the delays and cancellations."
Airlines have warned that passengers should expect further delays and cancellations throughout the day.
Speaking to the BBC News 24 today, Nats Chief Executive Richard Everitt apologised to passengers and said that service was working to minimise disruption.
The Nats air traffic control computer system is due to undergo an upgrade later this year and he said that the system had apparently failed after a test was carried out overnight. An investigation will be conducted to examine why the system failed.
The crucial air traffic control computer system is to be the subject of a £1 billion upgrade programme over the next eight years.
(SP)
When the National Air Traffic Services (Nats) computer system failed, all take-offs scheduled after 7am this morning had to be delayed. Air traffic controller were forced to use the manual back-up system to safely control all aircraft in UK airspace and guide those approaching airports to safe landings.
A spokesperson for British Airways said that due to a Nats computer problem earlier this morning their flights and those of other airlines were expected to be subject to disruption and cancellations today.
By 8am this morning, British Airways, had cancelled seven shorthaul flights out of London Heathrow and three shorthaul flights out of London Gatwick.
While flights into and out of all UK airports are suffering from delays, the temporary computer problem - caused by the testing of an upgrade to the computer system - has now ended. Flights are expected to return to normal later on today.
However, British Airways and other airlines operating scheduled UK flights today have advised customers to check if their flight is operating before leaving for the airport.
Mervyn Walker, British Airways Director UK Airports, said: "We apologise to our customers for the disruption caused today. We are doing everything we can to minimise the delays and cancellations."
Airlines have warned that passengers should expect further delays and cancellations throughout the day.
Speaking to the BBC News 24 today, Nats Chief Executive Richard Everitt apologised to passengers and said that service was working to minimise disruption.
The Nats air traffic control computer system is due to undergo an upgrade later this year and he said that the system had apparently failed after a test was carried out overnight. An investigation will be conducted to examine why the system failed.
The crucial air traffic control computer system is to be the subject of a £1 billion upgrade programme over the next eight years.
(SP)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
