Cardiff Airport Ranked Among the Worst UK Airports for Flight Cancellations
Statistics from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) reveal the UK’s worst airports for flight cancellations in 2024, with Cardiff Airport making the top three. The data, covering the period of January to November 2024, sheds light on the challenges faced by airlines, including storms and IT outages. According to the CAA, a cancelled flight refers to the non-operation of a previously planned flight, announced less than 24 hours before or after its scheduled departure time.
Topping the list is Southampton Airport, where an average of 3.3% of flights were cancelled each month, peaking at 5.5% in November 2024. Following closely is London City Airport. Anton Radchenko, CEO of AirAdvisor, who analysed the statistics, highlighted the various challenges faced by airports, such as stormy weather, snow, and fog causing disruptions, particularly in January and February. Cardiff Airport secured the third position on the list, with an average of 2.2% of flights cancelled monthly, rising to 4% in February 2024.
The adverse weather conditions in Wales during autumn and winter of 2024, including storms like Isha and Jocelyn, significantly impacted flight operations at Cardiff Airport. Similarly, London City and Glasgow airports experienced delays due to severe weather conditions. Additionally, a global IT outage in July 2024 led to around 5,000 flight cancellations worldwide, affecting numerous UK passengers.
Passengers affected by flight cancellations are advised by Anton to be aware of their rights. In such situations, passengers are entitled to request a seat on an alternative flight to their destination. If the airline is unable to rebook passengers promptly, they must find an alternate flight, even if it is with a different airline. Refunds are also an option if passengers choose not to travel. Claiming compensation is recommended, especially for flights cancelled with less than two weeks’ notice when flying with a UK or EU-based carrier within the UK or EU.
Interestingly, some UK airports managed to maintain zero cancellations in certain months throughout 2024. Bournemouth Airport, for instance, stood out with an average of just 0.04% cancellations per month. The CAA statistics provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by airports in ensuring seamless flight operations amid various disruptions.
Amidst these challenges, airports like Liverpool, Luton, and Bournemouth showcased resilience in minimizing flight cancellations, highlighting the importance of effective operational strategies. The statistics serve as a valuable resource for passengers and airlines to understand the trends and factors contributing to flight cancellations, ultimately fostering transparency and accountability within the aviation industry. It is essential for all stakeholders to collaborate in addressing these challenges to enhance the overall passenger experience and ensure efficient air travel services across the UK.