A software defect has been identified as the cause of the UK air traffic control outage that disrupted Gatwick and other airports on 8 September, according to findings released by NATS.
The failure reduced airspace capacity and contributed to more than 2,000 flight cancellations across the UK, with disruption continuing after the system itself returned to service.
Cause of the UK air traffic control outage
NATS said the problem was triggered by a timing fault lasting only milliseconds within part of its flight-data system. The defect corrupted an instruction used to allocate identification codes to aircraft, forcing controllers to use reduced-capacity backup procedures.
The operator said there was no safety risk and no evidence of a cyberattack or human error. Temporary safeguards are in place while a permanent software fix completes safety testing.
What happens next
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has asked the Civil Aviation Authority to conduct an independent review of NATS’ findings, infrastructure and investment plans. The review is expected to report within six months.
For Gatwick passengers, the announcement does not indicate a new outage or fresh disruption. Travellers should continue checking live flight information directly with their airline and Gatwick Airport before travelling.
Sources: Reuters and Associated Press.
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