LONDON (AP) – Travellers flying to or from the United Kingdom (UK) faced further disruptions as thick fog and low visibility restricted air traffic on one of the year’s busiest weekends.
Gatwick Airport in London warned that some flights may be delayed throughout Saturday and apologised for the inconvenience. Flights were delayed by up to three hours late Friday because of poor weather conditions, and at least 40 flights from the airport, mostly short-haul to Europe, were delayed on Saturday morning.
Heathrow Airport, one of Europe’s busiest, advised passengers to check with their airlines regarding potential delays. Disruptions were also reported at other UK airports including Stansted Airport in London and Manchester Airport.
The UK’s weather forecasters, the Met Office, said thick fog patches could reduce visibility to just 100 metres in some areas across the country. It said travellers should allow “a little bit longer” for journeys and warned drivers to be extra careful.
Kiera Quayle and her husband, who were visiting family for Christmas on the Isle of Man, were among many affected. Their return flight to London was delayed by hours and then cancelled late Friday.
“It’s frustrating and stressful but I overheard a few families who are now missing holidays and work who have it worse at this point,” she said.
Conditions are expected to improve, the Met Office said.
The country’s main air traffic control organisation said the restrictions would remain in place in areas with low visibility.
“Restrictions of this sort are only ever applied to maintain safety,” it said. “Our teams are working closely with the airports and airlines to minimise disruption.”
The restrictions came at a busy time of year when many people travel following the holiday season and ahead of the New Year.
