A technical fault in UK air traffic control systems led to the cancellation of about 90 flights between Ireland and the UK on the evening of 8 September 2026. This disruption affected routes connecting Dublin Airport with several major UK airports, triggering widespread travel chaos in the UK and Ireland.
Dublin Airport Response and Resumption of Operations
Dublin Airport remained operational overnight to support thousands of stranded passengers, with the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) deploying teams to provide water, blankets, and assistance. The airport confirmed normal flight schedules had resumed by the morning of 9 September 2026, describing the previous evening as challenging. Airlines operated a full
timetable on 9 September, enabling the airport’s busy early flights to depart as planned.
Impact on UK Airports and Ongoing Disruption
The disruption was most severe at London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham airports, according to data from Flightradar24. At Manchester Airport alone, at least 32 flights faced cancellations or delays. Heathrow Airport confirmed flights had resumed but warned some delays could continue as airlines reposition aircraft and crew displaced by the prior day’s technical issues.
Official Statements on Incident and Passenger Support
DAA’s media relations manager Graham McQueen said the disruption was “a tough day” for passengers affected by cancellations and stressed the situation was beyond Dublin Airport’s and airlines’ control. McQueen explained
that teams remained in the airport overnight to assist stranded travelers, making efforts to provide comfort. The airport urged passengers to maintain direct contact with airlines for flight updates.
Heathrow Airport noted that while flight operations had resumed, “some disruption may continue as airlines reposition aircraft and crew” following the widespread cancellations triggered by the air traffic control failure.
The incident has caused significant upheaval and has the potential to contribute to knock-on delays across Europe’s aviation network on 9 September 2026.
