Gatwick Airport is set to cancel approximately 82 flights in the upcoming week due to a combination of short-term sickness and COVID-19 cases among air traffic control personnel. This situation has left around 30% of air traffic control staff unavailable, causing significant disruptions.
The majority of cancellations are expected on Friday, September 29, with EasyJet, British Airways, and Ryanair among the affected airlines.
Discussions will determine which flights to cancel, with adjustments based on each airline’s utilization of the airport. While this move aims to provide certainty to passengers, it may increase the risk of delays for other flights this week.
Despite the challenges, the airport anticipates improved staffing levels in October, reducing the need for further cancellations.
