Manchester Airport has been identified as the UK airport most likely to delay your summer holiday, according to new data from SEO Backlinks. The analysis of punctuality figures for the first half of 2025 found that only 71.5% of flights from Manchester were recorded as on time, meaning 28.5% — nearly one in four travellers — experienced a delay.
Birmingham and Stansted Among the Worst
Birmingham International Airport ranked second worst, with 72.5% of flights on time, while Stansted and Bournemouth tied for third, each with 73.5% on-time performance. London airports did not dominate the bottom 10, but Stansted and Gatwick both appeared, showing delays are not limited to regional hubs.
The full top 10 UK airports most likely to delay your holiday are: Manchester (71.5% on time), Birmingham International (72.5%), Stansted (73.5%), Bournemouth (73.5%), Bristol (74.5%), Teesside (75%), Newcastle (75.5%), Gatwick (75.5%), Jersey (75.5%), and Exeter (76%).
Expert Advice for Travellers
Daniel Weston, spokesperson for SEO Backlinks, said: "Flight time and ticket price are usually the first things people compare, but punctuality can make a huge difference to the start of a holiday. If you are booking a tight connection, travelling with children or paying for airport parking by the hour, a lower on-time score can quickly become expensive and stressful."
Weston advised passengers to check the latest airport and airline status before leaving home, keep screenshots of disruption notices, and know when they may be entitled to support or compensation if a delay is within the airline's control.
Manchester Airport has been contacted for comment in response to the findings.
