A “devastated” Scots man has been left stranded, after finding out his father passed away, due to thick fog that has delayed over 1000 flights across the UK.
John Mitchell is desperate to get back to Aberdeen after finding out his father passed away on Friday morning. The 47-year-old, who had been in London visiting friends, booked a last-minute EasyJet flight from Gatwick Airport on Friday which has now been delayed for more than three hours due to the foggy weather conditions.
The thick fog has wrecked havoc on festive travel plans as the UK’s three busiest airports – Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester – struggle to return to their normal flight schedule after Christmas. Many flights from Gatwick have been delayed today by one to three hours with disruption, according to the airport’s online departure board.
John says he is “absolutely devastated” and hopes his flight which has been delayed till 10.53pm actually flies on Friday. He said: “I was actually supposed to be in London till Sunday, but I’ve had a family bereavement. My dad passed away this morning.
“The flight I booked is for 7.35pm but is now estimated to leave at 10.53pm – nearly three-and-a-half hours late. I’m worried because Aberdeen airport has got restrictions for late flights. I’m a mess down here, because, obviously, once I get home – if I get home to Aberdeen tonight – my car is actually at the airport, which is fine.
“I’m going to have to go and see my family, and I’m not going to get to them at 11.30am tomorrow morning. I’m absolutely devastated. I don’t know what to do.”
Air traffic restrictions are in place at several UK airports due to fog, the country’s main air traffic control (ATC) provider Nats has said.
A spokesperson for Nats said: “Due to widespread fog, temporary air traffic restrictions are in place at several airports across the UK today. Restrictions of this sort are only ever applied to maintain safety.
“We continue to monitor the situation and have a Met Office expert embedded within our operation to ensure we have the latest available information. Our teams are working closely with the airports and airlines to minimise disruption.”
A London Gatwick spokesperson said: “Temporary air traffic restrictions have been put in place due to fog causing poor visibility. Some flights may be delayed throughout the day. London Gatwick apologises for any inconvenience. Passengers should contact their airline for further information.”
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