Fog Causes Major Disruptions at Heathrow, Gatwick, and Other UK Airports
Dense fog continues to disrupt air travel across the UK. The fog, which began affecting airports on Friday, has led to significant delays and cancellations. Air traffic control provider Nats has imposed temporary restrictions at major airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, due to poor visibility. Travelers should check flight statuses regularly as delays are expected to last throughout the day.
Flight Cancellations and Delays Impact Thousands of Passengers
At Heathrow, 20 flights have been cancelled, and 29 others have been delayed by Saturday morning. Gatwick faces similar problems, with 26 delayed flights and one cancellation. Fog continues to cause delays, as visibility issues make it difficult for planes to land and take off. Airport authorities apologize for the inconvenience and warn passengers that delays could extend throughout the day.
The Knock-On Effect of Previous Day’s Delays
Passengers at Heathrow, Gatwick, and other airports are feeling the impact of delays from Friday. Many flights delayed the previous day are still affected by poor visibility, creating a backlog. Travelers have faced long waits in terminals, uncertain of when their flights will depart. Nats continues to monitor the situation, but there is no clear indication of when things will return to normal.
Travel Disruptions Extend Beyond Air Travel
The fog has also impacted road travel. National Highways, responsible for the UK’s motorways and A-roads, has advised drivers to exercise caution. Reduced visibility has created hazardous driving conditions. Motorists should use dipped headlights, wipers, and demisters. Despite the fog, traffic flows have remained unaffected, though caution remains essential.
Passengers Share Frustrations Over Extended Delays
Irem, a 36-year-old woman traveling from Germany to Manchester, shared her frustration over a nearly seven-hour delay. She faced cramped conditions at the airport as she waited to board. Despite the inconvenience, she remained hopeful that she would still reach her destination in North Wales, although later than planned. Her experience highlights the ongoing travel challenges caused by the fog.
Ripple Effect of Fog Reaches Airports Across the UK
The fog has affected airports beyond Heathrow and Gatwick. Manchester, Glasgow, and Cardiff airports reported delays and cancellations on Friday, with many flights still delayed on Saturday. Some flights were delayed earlier due to low visibility, creating a backlog. Airports are working to manage the situation, but travelers face uncertainty about when their flights will depart.
Birmingham and Manchester Airports Report Fewer Disruptions
Some airports have experienced fewer disruptions. Birmingham, East Midlands, and Manchester airports have reported no significant issues. Travelers flying from these locations have avoided the chaos at Heathrow and Gatwick. However, delays at other airports mean that travel remains unpredictable for many passengers.
Why the Fog Is Causing Widespread Disruptions
Weather experts explain that the fog is the result of a slow-moving high-pressure system, which traps low cloud, mist, and fog near the ground. This phenomenon creates damp conditions, often following rain. The moisture in the air prevents the fog from lifting, causing continued disruptions to both air and road travel.
Forecasts Predict Clearer Conditions by Sunday
Good news is on the horizon. Forecasters predict the fog will begin to clear by Sunday. Many areas of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will see sunny spells. While conditions are expected to improve, some delays may continue as airports clear backlogs created by the fog.
Tips for Travelers: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Travelers should remain patient and check for updates regularly. Airports are providing frequent updates, and measures are in place to ensure passenger safety. As the fog clears, conditions should improve, but delays may still affect some flights. Travelers should prepare for potential delays and stay informed about flight statuses.