Travelling by plane can be a quick and convenient way to get from one place to another, but there’s nothing worse than being stuck in an airport thanks to a delayed flight. It can be frustrating, infuriating and even ruin the start of a holiday or business trip. Unfortunately, some airlines are more prone to delays than others, and recently, the UK’s worst airlines for delays have been named. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the airlines that made the list, and explore what factors contributed to their poor performance.
April 10, 2023, 9:19 AM | Updated: April 10, 2023, 9:23 AM
Picture: Alamy
WizzAir Named UK’s Worst Airline for Delays for Second Year Running
According to the latest release of flight statistics by the Civil Aviation Authority, WizzAir has once again been named as the UK’s worst airline for delays, with an average delay of 46 minutes and six seconds last year, a significant increase compared to the previous year. This title was also held by the Hungarian airline in 2021. The data only covers scheduled and chartered flights from eight UK airports in major cities and does not include cancelled flights.
Tui came in second-last with average delays reaching 40 minutes and 18 seconds across the year. The luxury long-haul operator Qatar Airways took third place, hosting the World Cup in December.
On the bright side, the most punctual operator was Norwegian Air Shuttle with an average delay of just 13 minutes and 42 seconds.
Picture: Getty
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As the Easter getaway approaches, Dover faces ongoing disruption and possible French protests that may cause stress for travellers hoping to go abroad over the long weekend. The worst congestion is expected to be on major roads in the South West and Home Counties.
Engineering work on some of the railways is also taking place, with Network Rail carrying out a major project on the West Coast Main Line, meaning no services will run between London Euston and Milton Keynes Central.
Heavy traffic leading up to the Port of Dover last weekend caused chaos as families went away for the first part of their Easter break. The Port of Dover promises a “full review” to improve their approach ahead of the Bank Holiday. Nonetheless, travellers can expect at least a two-hour wait if they are heading there on Friday.
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In conclusion, airline delays are undoubtedly a frustrating and inconvenient experience for any traveler. However, being aware of which airlines are prone to delays can help passengers make more informed decisions about their travel plans. The recent report by Which? has shed light on The UK’s worst airlines for delays, and it’s a sobering reminder that not all airlines are created equal. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to weigh the pros and cons of each airline before booking a flight. Whether it’s paying a little extra for a more reliable airline, or taking a chance on a budget carrier, the choice is entirely yours. Just remember to stay patient, and always expect the unexpected when it comes to airline travel.
