Ryanair CEO Calls for Resignation of Air Traffic Control Chief
Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, is urging the chief executive of air traffic control (ATC) provider Nats, Martin Rolfe, to step down following the cancellation of dozens of flights at Gatwick Airport. The disruptions on Sunday were attributed to “Nats staff shortages,” prompting O’Leary to criticize Rolfe for the ongoing issues. This is not the first time O’Leary has called for Rolfe’s resignation, citing previous disruptions caused by Nats, including last year’s August Bank Holiday Monday chaos due to a technical failure.
- Data from FlightRadar24 revealed that 49 departures and 51 arrivals were canceled on Sunday between 3pm and midnight, affecting over 16,000 passengers.
- Gatwick Airport has faced frequent disruptions due to ATC staffing challenges, impacting both airlines and passengers.
O’Leary emphasized the need for competent leadership within the UK ATC service to ensure efficiency and reliability for airlines and passengers. He stated, “Airlines and passengers deserve better.” O’Leary’s call for Rolfe’s resignation comes as a push for improved management within Nats to prevent future flight disruptions.
Aviation analytics firm Cirium reported that a combination of adverse weather conditions and ATC restrictions led to a surge in flight cancellations last week. Across UK airports, a total of 427 departures were canceled, representing a significant increase compared to previous weeks. Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City were among the airports most affected by the recent wave of flight cancellations.
In response to the situation, Nats and Gatwick have been approached for comments to address the issues raised by Ryanair and the broader impact on air travel. The ongoing challenges faced by airlines and passengers highlight the importance of effective ATC management and adequate staffing to ensure the smooth operation of flights across the UK.
Key Points:
- Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary calls for the resignation of Nats chief executive Martin Rolfe.
- Flight disruptions at Gatwick Airport on Sunday were linked to Nats staff shortages.
- Over 16,000 passengers were affected by the cancellation of 49 departures and 51 arrivals.
- A surge in flight cancellations across UK airports was attributed to adverse weather and ATC restrictions.
- Efforts to address ATC staffing challenges and ensure efficient flight operations are underway.