A technical issue in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 air traffic control system caused major flight delays and cancellations on July 30, 2025. The problem, traced to a software error in radar systems managed by National Air Traffic Services (NATS), lasted only 20 minutes but led to more than 150 flight cancellations and widespread delays. The disruption left thousands of passengers stranded or delayed, especially at large airports like Heathrow and Gatwick.
NATS quickly fixed the technical issue, and by July 31, 2025, systems were fully operational. However, the effects continued, with Heathrow reporting 10 more flight cancellations the next morning. Airlines struggled to reposition planes and crews, which caused further delays. UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander warned, “continued disruption is expected,” urging passengers to check with their airlines and airports for the latest updates.
NATS stated there is “no evidence” the incident was cyber-related, but officials have not ruled out the possibility of hostile foreign action. This uncertainty has led to calls for an urgent investigation into potential outside interference. Ryanair and easyJet, two major airlines, criticized NATS for repeated failures. Ryanair’s COO Neal McMahon even called for the resignation of NATS CEO Martin Rolfe, blaming him for ongoing passenger disruption.
Industry experts, like Dr. Junade Ali, explained that the incident appears to be an IT or software outage, similar to previous events. He stressed the need for strong, reliable IT systems in air traffic management to prevent future problems. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the situation has increased pressure on NATS and the UK government to invest in more resilient technology.
This technical issue comes as the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 is working on a major airspace modernisation program. New laws and regulations introduced in June and July 2025 aim to update old systems and make air traffic control more resilient. The UK Airspace Design Service (UKADS), run by NATS (En Route) plc, is being set up to redesign flight paths, increase capacity, and reduce delays and emissions. UKADS is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025.
In June 2025, NATS managed over 237,000 flights, a 2.5% increase from the previous year, and contributed only 1.2% of total European en-route delays, despite handling nearly a quarter of European air traffic. Still, the July 30 technical issue shows how even short outages can cause big problems for passengers and airlines.
Passengers affected by flight cancellations or delays should:
- Check flight status directly with their airline and monitor airport websites for updates
- Allow extra time for travel to and from airports
- Keep all travel documents and receipts for possible compensation claims under EU/UK passenger rights rules
The UK government and NATS are speeding up airspace modernisation to improve reliability and safety. For more information on air passenger rights and updates, visit the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
This incident highlights the urgent need for strong IT systems and ongoing investment to keep air travel safe and reliable as demand grows.
Learn Today
NATS → National Air Traffic Services managing UK’s air traffic control systems and radar operations.
Radar Systems → Technology using radio waves to detect and track aircraft positions in air traffic control.
Flight Cancellation → Official stoppage of a scheduled flight due to operational or technical reasons.
Airspace Modernisation → Process to improve air traffic control systems and increase capacity efficiently and safely.
Cyberattack → A malicious attempt to disrupt or damage computer systems or networks, possibly affecting air traffic control.
This Article in a Nutshell
On July 30, 2025, a brief UK air traffic control software error caused 150+ flight cancellations. NATS quickly fixed it, but airline disruptions persisted. Experts call for stronger IT systems as the UK modernizes airspace. Passengers must check updates and hold documents for compensation under EU/UK rights.
— By VisaVerge.com
