UK authorities urge airlines to cut schedules to avoid flight chaos. Travelers should check their status and know their rights on re-booking and compensation.
The recent surge in last-minute flight cancellations has prompted intervention from the Department for Transport (DfT) and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Airlines have been instructed to adjust their summer schedules now to prevent further chaos and passenger distress later.
This decision comes after numerous cases of passengers arriving at airports—or even boarding planes—only to be informed that their flights were cancelled, disrupting countless travel plans.
In a joint letter, the DfT and CAA emphasized the importance of early cancellations over last-minute disruptions. Richard Moriarty, CEO of the CAA, and Rannia Leontaridi, director-general for aviation at the DfT, stressed the need for improved resilience, planning, and scheduling to match actual operational capacity.
As to why Airlines are cancelling flights, in truth is that the industry is facing a “perfect storm” of challenges:
– Pandemic layoffs: Airlines and airports significantly reduced staff during COVID-19;
– Surge in travel demand: Restrictions lifted rapidly, overwhelming the industry;
– Staff shortages: A tight labor market and extended ID check times have reduced operational efficiency;
– Strikes & illness: Higher COVID-19 infection rates among employees have worsened staffing issues.
Some experts also argue that Brexit exacerbated the crisis, as many EU aviation workers left the UK workforce, making rehiring difficult.
As to why Airlines are cancelling flights, in truth is that the industry is facing a “perfect storm” of challenges:
Some airlines are more affected than others. The airlines operating in UK that are mostly affected were the following: EasyJet, Wizz Air & Tui, British Airways and often, London Gatwick Airport was involved.
On peak travel days, airlines may be forced to cancel up to 50 flights, leaving thousands of passengers scrambling for alternatives.
If you want to check if your flight is cancelled, as a passenger you will be notified via email or text based on the contact details used at booking. Additionally, travelers can check their flight status through the airline’s website or app, usually under the booking management section.
Airlines often try to cancel flights at least two weeks in advance to avoid paying compensation. However, last-minute cancellations may still occur.
Under UK regulations, if your flight is cancelled, you are entitled to:
1. A full refund or an alternative flight, even on a rival airline if necessary;
2. Accommodation and meals if delays require an overnight stay;
3. Compensation, depending on when the flight was cancelled:
£220 for flights under 1,500km
£350 for flights between 1,500km and 3,500km
£520 for long-haul flights (e.g., to/from Bangkok)
Airlines must inform passengers of their rights and provide refunds or compensation promptly. If a carrier systematically fails to meet these obligations, the CAA may take enforcement action.
In conclusion, flight cancellations remain a major concern as the aviation industry struggles to recover. Passengers should stay informed, check flight statuses regularly, and understand their rights to ensure they receive fair treatment in case of disruptions.