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| N ATS air traffic control during a better day... |
UPDATE:
The situation is continuing to improve and delays are reducing, however NATS recognise there are currently knock on delays as a result of airspace capacity restrictions in place earlier in the day.
NATS currently expect to meet demand for the number of flights planned for the rest of the day without creating any additional delay. NATS 'are also doing everything we can' to safeguard the evening rush hour.
Passengers are advised to contact their airline to confirm the status of their flight.
Please check www.nats.aero for the latest information.
Updates can also be found on twitter – @NATSPressoffice.
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NATS had a technical problem overnight with interference on some radio frequencies used to speak directly to aircraft. It only affects they say, part of Scottish airspace. Flights to and from some Scottish and Northern Irish airports this morning may be delayed as a result.
NATS claim they managed to reduce the forecast delays significantly and are now working on bringing service levels back to normal as soon as possible.
Passengers are advised to contact their airline to confirm the status of their flight.
Please check www.nats.aero for the latest information. Updates can also be found on twitter – @NATSPressoffice.
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Julian Bray Aviation expert writes: Bad news for air passengers using Scottish Airports this morning, as an overnight computer failure has effectively closed down air traffic control.
The privatised NATS (National Air Traffic Control) say the technical issue happened overnight at Prestwick, and is in the process of being fixed. NATS have in the past been criticised for not fully updating their 'legacy' ie ancient computer equipment and computer code written as early as the 1970s' is still operative and in daily use.
The problem is that even if NATS do get the air traffic service up and running, many aircraft are now stranded in the wrong location, and will need to be 'dead leg' repositioned. (ie flying empty).
Expect short- term cancellations and delays. Those holding air tickets are advised to contact your airline before travelling to the airport:
PRESS STATEMENT
Due to a technical issue overnight at the Scottish Air Traffic Control centre at Prestwick some impact on flights is expected this morning but the situation is improving.
The cause has been identified and is currently being resolved. Every possible action is being taken to assist airlines to minimise disruption. We apologise for the inconvenience people may be experiencing and will update with further details as soon as possible.
Passengers are advised to contact their airline to confirm the status of their flight.
Please check www.nats.aero for the latest information. Updates can also be found on twitter – @NATSPressoffice.
JULIAN BRAY +44(0)1733 345581, Aviation Expert, Journalist, Broadcaster, Aviation Security & Airline Operations Expert, Travel / Maritime & Cruise Industry, NUJ, EQUITY, LIVE ISDN LINK, Broadcast ISDN COOBE ++44 (0)1733 345020 (ALL CODECS) e&oe Old faithful NOKIA: 07944 217476 iPhone 0743 530 3145 www.aviationcomment.com Contrib. Account #104764 53 FEED: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BraysDuckhouseBlog
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