Gatwick tops the list as Britain’s most delayed airport in 2024, with Birmingham close behind.
Passengers flying out of Birmingham Airport this year have faced average delays of over 21 minutes, according to newly released data from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Only London Gatwick fared worse, with departures running behind schedule by more than 23 minutes on average.
The analysis, carried out by the PA news agency, looked at both scheduled and chartered flights from 22 UK airports in 2024, each of which recorded over 1,000 outbound departures. Birmingham ranked second for the longest average delay per flight.
Widespread Delays Frustrate Travellers
Across the UK, the average delay stood at 18 minutes and 24 seconds — a marginal improvement from the previous year. However, the data excludes flight cancellations, which remain a separate concern for air passengers.
The delays have sparked growing frustration, especially during peak travel periods. Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of the Advantage Travel Partnership, highlighted the emotional toll delays take on holidaymakers.
“Passengers expect and deserve not to spend hours stuck in terminals with little information or support.
Reliable service, clear communication and efficient operations should be the standard, not the exception, and airports must take this responsibility seriously.
This summer is set to be exceptionally busy, therefore, it is essential that airports and airlines do all they can to ensure consumer confidence to travel remains high.”
Depending on the length of the delay and the distance of the journey, UK passengers are legally entitled to:
- Complimentary food and drinks
- A means of communication (such as phone access)
- Overnight accommodation if necessary
In some cases, travellers may also claim compensation of up to £520, particularly when the delay is due to factors within the airline’s control, like mechanical issues or crew shortages.
However, air traffic control problems and extreme weather fall under “extraordinary circumstances” and typically do not qualify for compensation.
Selina Chadha, a director at the CAA, urged travellers to familiarise themselves with their rights.
“The industry works hard to ensure flights are punctual, but sometimes delays occur. What is important to us is what airlines and airports do to minimise disruption, as well as comply with their legal obligations to look after passengers if something happens to their flight.
We also advise consumers to ensure they know what assistance they are entitled to.”
Birmingham Airport Keeps Silent
Despite its poor ranking, Birmingham Airport has not issued a public response to the findings. The silence leaves passengers wondering what steps, if any, are being taken to improve performance as the busy summer season approaches.
Full Rankings: UK Airports by Average Delay in 2024
Here is the full list of UK airports ranked from worst to best in terms of average departure delays:
| Rank | Airport | Average Delay |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gatwick | 23 minutes, 18 seconds |
| 2 | Birmingham | 21 minutes, 18 seconds |
| 3 | Manchester | 20 minutes |
| 4 | Stansted | 19 minutes, 36 seconds |
| 5 | Teesside | 19 minutes, 6 seconds |
| 6 | Exeter | 19 minutes |
| 7 | Edinburgh | 18 minutes, 6 seconds |
| 8 | Bournemouth | 17 minutes, 48 seconds |
| 9 | Luton | 17 minutes, 42 seconds |
| 10 | Cardiff Wales | 17 minutes, 36 seconds |
| =11 | Heathrow | 17 minutes, 24 seconds |
| =11 | Newcastle | 17 minutes, 24 seconds |
| 13 | Bristol | 17 minutes, 6 seconds |
| 14 | Southampton | 16 minutes, 24 seconds |
| 15 | Leeds Bradford | 16 minutes |
| 16 | Glasgow | 15 minutes, 12 seconds |
| 17 | London City | 15 minutes, 6 seconds |
| 18 | Belfast International | 14 minutes, 42 seconds |
| 19 | Aberdeen | 13 minutes, 18 seconds |
| 20 | Liverpool (John Lennon) | 12 minutes, 42 seconds |
| 21 | East Midlands International | 12 minutes, 30 seconds |
| 22 | Belfast City (George Best) | 11 minutes, 36 seconds |
Conclusion
Birmingham Airport’s place near the top of the delay rankings is a troubling sign for Midlands travellers heading into the summer travel season. With pressure mounting and demand set to soar, all eyes will be on airport operators to tighten their operations and restore passenger trust.
Whether they respond proactively or remain silent could shape the travel experience for thousands in the months ahead.
