A 20-minute disruption in the NATS system, which manages air traffic in Great Britain, resulted in the cancellation of over 150 flights and numerous delays. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
The malfunction occurred due to an error in the system that displays radar data at the air traffic control center in Swanwick. As a result, the radars were unable to accurately show the positions of the aircraft, and all flights were temporarily halted for safety reasons.
NATS is considered the national infrastructure of the skies, and when the radar fails, the system reduces the number of aircraft to ensure safety. Therefore, even a short disruption had a significant impact.
Ryanair and EasyJet criticized NATS, stating that lessons have not been learned from the mistakes of 2023. Ryanair even demanded the resignation of the head of NATS.
Other experts emphasize that such technical malfunctions occur from time to time. The skies of Great Britain are considered one of the busiest areas.
The malfunction, which occurred during the peak period of the year, increased pressure on the entire system. For this reason, some experts are indicating the need for additional takeoff and landing runways in South England.
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