This improvement can be attributed to Nats addressing staffing shortages, which had previously impacted air traffic control operations.

However, Gatwick managed to operate smoothly during the busy Easter weekend, avoiding significant disruptions from ground-handler strikes.

Passengers facing delays should be aware of their rights, including potential compensation for delays over three hours, as emphasized by CAA director Selina Chadha.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed support for Gatwick's expansion plans, which aim to enhance operational resilience, pending necessary adjustments by the airport.

AirportsUK noted the aviation sector's recovery post-pandemic, while emphasizing the need for continued collaboration to address ongoing delays.

While passengers are entitled to assistance during delays, ATC issues are classified as 'extraordinary circumstances,' which means airlines are exempt from compensation for these delays.

As summer travel approaches, Lo Bue-Said urged airports to enhance their services and operations to better accommodate the expected increase in passenger volume.

Birmingham Airport recorded the second worst punctuality with an average delay exceeding 21 minutes, while Manchester Airport followed closely with delays averaging 20 minutes.

To further enhance on-time performance in 2025, Gatwick has initiated plans that include new methods for managing aircraft arrivals and optimizing jet bridge usage.

Despite this progress, delays at airports were still largely due to air traffic control staff shortages, particularly affecting Gatwick and other continental European airports.

In 2024, the average delay for flights across 22 major UK airports decreased to 18 minutes and 24 seconds, down from 20 minutes and 42 seconds in 2023.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, highlighted the emotional toll of flight disruptions on travelers and called for improved communication and efficient operations at airports.