London - A technical problem has impacted the air traffic control systems in the UK, leading to flight delays that have affected thousands of individuals. Holidaymakers are currently facing delays both within the UK and abroad, as the National Air Traffic Services (Nats) implemented traffic flow restrictions.

Although the issue has since been resolved, airlines continue to caution that noteworthy delays persist.

One traveler shared with BBC News that he might have to wait until the early hours for his postponed flight back to the UK.
Nats confirmed the glitch shortly after noon on Monday and later announced at 15:15 BST that they had successfully identified and rectified the problem that had been disrupting UK airspace.

Various airports across the UK, along with airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and TUI, informed passengers about the likelihood of delays and cancellations.

British Airways acknowledged that the air traffic control dilemma had led to considerable and inevitable delays and cancellations. The airline expressed apologies for the extensive inconvenience caused. Passengers on short-haul flights were advised not to proceed to the airport without verifying the status of their flight.

The airline also offered the option for customers scheduled to travel on Monday and Tuesday to potentially reschedule their flights for a later date without incurring additional charges.

Alastair Rosenschein, a former British Airways pilot who now serves as an aviation consultant, characterized the disruption as "significant." He likened the situation's impact to what it would be like for cars if all roads in the country were closed.