Air traffic control failure disrupts flights

Flights to and from UK airports have been disrupted by a technical problem at Swanwick air traffic control centre this afternoon.

Airspace capacity has been restricted in order to manage the situation.

Some flights arriving at and departing from Exeter Airport have been affected.

NATS, the national air traffic control body, reported at 4.15 that the system has been restored, but it will take time for operations to recover.

A NATS spokesman said: “Following a technical failure at Swanwick, the system has been restored. However, it will take time for operations across the UK to recover so passengers should contact their airline for the status of their flight.

“We apologise for any delays and the inconvenience this may have caused.”