Most flight delays at U.K. airports are caused by factors beyond airport control, according to new analysis by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The data, reviewed by the Press Association, shows Manchester Airport (MAN) recorded the longest average delay at 19 minutes, 30 seconds per departing flight, despite a slight improvement on the previous year.
Airports Point to External Factors
Bournemouth Airport (BOH) ranked third, with an average delay of 17 minutes 18 seconds, while Southampton Airport (SOU) placed fourth. The study examined scheduled and charter departures from 23 U.K. airports handling more than 1,000 outbound flights annually, excluding cancellations.
Airport operators say the majority of delays stem from issues such as adverse weather and air traffic control (ATC) restrictions, according to the BBC.
Andrew Bell, chief executive of Regional and City Airports, which operates BOH, said the figures do not fully reflect operational realities.
“The statistics are pretty high level and generally do not take into account most of the things that are outside of an airport’s control,” he said.
He added that short delays are unlikely to significantly impact most journeys, particularly on longer routes. A spokesperson for BOH also said the airport continues to perform strongly on passenger satisfaction despite the figures.
SOU echoed similar concerns, citing delayed inbound aircraft and technical issues as contributing factors, while stating efforts are ongoing to improve efficiency with airline partners.
Passenger Impact and Rights
The CAA has warned that even short delays can affect travellers. Anna Bowles, head of consumer at the regulator, said delays have a “real impact for people heading off on holidays” and stressed the need for better communication.
Passengers departing from U.K. airports may be entitled to assistance, including food, drinks and accommodation, depending on the delay length and flight distance. Compensation of up to £520 may also be available if the disruption is within an airline’s control.
Industry body Airports U.K. said delays in 2025 have reduced overall, suggesting gradual improvements across the sector.
Have you faced delays at U.K. airports recently? Share your experience in the comments.
