Liverpool John Lennon Airport is facing disruption today (September 8) after a technical issue with the UK's air traffic control service affected departing flights. Air traffic control provider NATS said the issue was causing disruption to flight departures across the UK, with dozens of flights delayed and several cancelled at Manchester Airport.
NATS statement on technical issue
In a statement shared on its website and social media, NATS said: "We are investigating a technical issue which is causing some disruption to flight departures. Our engineers are on site and we will provide an update as soon as we can. We apologise for the delay this will cause to journeys, passengers should check with their airline on the status of their flight."
Airport responses to disruption
Liverpool John Lennon Airport said the issue "may have some impact" on departures from the airport. In a post on X, the airport said: "We are aware of a technical issue with NATS' air traffic control service across the UK, which may have some impact on departures from Liverpool. If you are flying out today, please check with your airline for up-to-date details about your flight."
Manchester Airport also confirmed it was experiencing the impact of the issue, with a spokesperson saying some departing flights could be delayed. They said: "We are aware of an issue affecting NATS' air traffic control service at UK airports which may result in delays to some departing flights from Manchester Airport today."
Advice for passengers
Passengers due to travel are advised to check the latest status of their flight online. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.
