Live Updates: Flight Delays Across the Skies

Systems Begin to Recover

The FAA and European air traffic networks report that the technical issue has now been identified and patched. Systems are gradually returning to normal, but backlogs mean delays are likely to continue into the evening. Airports are working flight-by-flight to clear queues.

Relief is on the horizon, but expect a slow catch-up process.

What to do if you’re affected: Airlines Offering Flexibility

Many carriers, including Delta, United, British Airways, and Lufthansa, are waiving change fees for passengers affected by delays. This means travellers with tight connections or rigid timetables can adjust without penalty.

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💡 Travel Tip: Flexibility is your friend today — don’t be afraid to explore rebooking options.

What’s Causing Today’s Delays?

A minor technical issue in international air traffic control systems is slowing down flight departures at a number of major airports today. The problem, which began overnight, is affecting the sequencing of planes for takeoff and landing — essentially creating a longer queue in the skies.

Airlines and airport authorities stress that safety has not been compromised at any point, and flights are continuing to operate. However, passengers can expect delays ranging from 30 minutes to over two hours at busier hubs, with some knock-on effects for connecting flights. The issue is being resolved, but it may take much of the day for schedules to return to normal.

Takeaway: It’s a logistical hiccup, not a safety concern — and the situation is already being worked on.

Backlog Building at Atlanta

Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, the world’s busiest, is seeing a significant build-up of delayed departures.

Some flights are now 2–3 hours behind schedule, largely due to the tech glitch slowing down air traffic sequencing. The airport is adding extra staff to help passengers rebook if needed.

Takeaway: Expect longer waits if you’re flying through Atlanta today.

European Connections Feeling the Ripples

Hubs in Europe, including Frankfurt and Paris Charles de Gaulle, are seeing small delays due to the technical issue affecting international coordination. This is causing slight knock-on delays for transatlantic flights later in the afternoon.

Airlines are offering rebooking options where needed, and staff are proactively helping passengers make connections. In most cases, delays are under two hours, and flights are still on schedule for the majority of travellers.

💡 Travel Tip: Keep an eye on connection times and use airline apps to receive instant updates.

Smooth Sailing at Los Angeles International

Good news for West Coast travellers: LAX is reporting only minimal delays this morning. The minor air traffic system issue has had little impact here so far, thanks to lower early-morning traffic and favourable weather conditions. Most flights are departing within 30 minutes of their scheduled times.

Airport staff are still reminding passengers to check flight statuses, but lounges and cafés are operating normally. Travellers can enjoy coffee or a quick breakfast while waiting to board.

💡 Travel Tip: If you’re flying out of LAX, today is one of the easier days — just double-check your gate and departure time.

Storm Watch Adds Pressure at Chicago O’Hare

Chicago O’Hare is experiencing a combination of minor tech delays and a passing band of spring storms. Most flights are currently delayed by around an hour, though the situation is improving as skies begin to clear. Airlines are providing updates via mobile apps, text notifications, and airport monitors.

Passengers are encouraged to remain calm and flexible. The airport has increased staffing in customer service and food outlets to help travellers manage the wait comfortably.

💡 Travel Tip: Keep an eye on weather updates alongside your airline’s app for the most accurate arrival and departure times.

Heathrow Holding Patterns, London

At Heathrow, a number of flights are entering short holding patterns before takeoff. This is mostly affecting outbound departures, while arrivals are running relatively smoothly. Airport staff report that the delays are largely administrative, related to the temporary air traffic control systems glitch.

Passengers at the gates are being kept informed with announcements every 15–20 minutes, and boarding processes are continuing, albeit more slowly than usual.

💡 Travel Tip: If you’re connecting through London, leave some extra buffer in your schedule — the airport is otherwise functioning normally.

A Slow Start at JFK, New York

Morning travellers at JFK are experiencing some delays, mostly for flights scheduled between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. The backlog is due to the tech issue in air traffic scheduling that’s temporarily slowed departures. Most airlines report that flights are moving within 60–90 minutes of their scheduled times, though a few routes may take slightly longer.

Staff are on hand to assist passengers, and food outlets and lounges are accommodating the extra wait. Early morning travellers are advised to stay near their gates and monitor airline apps for real-time updates.

💡 Travel Tips: Allow extra time if you have connections, and keep snacks or coffee handy!