Flights from Gatwick resumed after air traffic control breakdown

According to Gatwick Airport’s website, flights have resumed from 7.20pm UK time after nearly two hours of chaos.

Scores of flights were diverted and thousands of people left stranded at Gatwick as technicians tried to resolve an air traffic control issue, which was first reported at 5.45 pm (UK). 

An air-traffic control ‘gold emergency’ was declared after an issue in the control tower. The exact problem has not been revealed.

Departure boards inside the airport have shown delays of flights of between three to four hours. 

Many passengers are reported to be sitting in planes waiting for take-off with no idea when permission will be given. 

Incoming flights had been diverted to as far away as Bristol.

The problems occur just as the summer rush has started, with the airport gearing up got its busiest time of year. 

A Gatwick statement said: “If you are due to fly this evening, we advise you to check the status of your flight with your airline before travelling to the airport.” 

Flights from Spain are starting to show lengthy delays. Flight departures can be checked on the AENA website http://www.aena.es/en/passengers/passengers.html