After “incident” on BA flight, all flights at Gatwick Airport are suspended

There were significant disruptions at Gatwick Airport as planes were unable to take off or land.

Aircraft tracking data showed that several aircraft were trapped in the airspace near Gatwick as well as over the English Channel.

The takeoff of a British Airways flight to Vancouver, Canada, had to be aborted, according to flight tracking data.

The airline has now confirmed that the take-off had to be cancelled due to a “technical problem”, but that the runway is now open and flight operations are possible as normal.

Due to the disruption, numerous flights were delayed, affecting England fans who wanted to fly to Germany.

A passenger on the flight described the terrifying moment when takeoff was aborted and she was thrown forward in her seat.

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Emily, an aerospace engineering student, told Metro.co.uk: “I was a little worried about flying on a Boeing, but we got on and everything seemed normal.”

“We began accelerating for takeoff, but then suddenly the force reversed and we were pushed forward in our seats instead of back, then the plane stopped abruptly.

“We were notified that the aircraft’s takeoff was aborted due to a technical problem. The fire department then arrived to cool down the aircraft due to the brief braking.

“Everyone was unharmed and after about an hour we were able to leave the plane. The cabin crew were very nice and said they had never experienced anything like it before.”

“The damage was not visible, although the spoilers looked smoky.”

“We were then taken to customs and didn’t know what to do next! Luckily we managed to book a flight for tomorrow.”

“I feel for the people who are on their way home or are affected by the delays.”

A British Airways spokesman said: “Our pilots have taken the precautionary decision to cancel takeoff due to a technical problem.”

“Safety is always our top priority and we apologize to customers for any inconvenience caused.”

A spokesman for London Gatwick Airport said: “The main runway was closed for 50 minutes today (28 June) because the brakes of an aircraft taking off were overheating.”

“Safety is our top priority and London Gatwick Airport Fire Service was immediately on site to assist the aircraft.”

“During the closure, 16 incoming flights were diverted. The runway is now open and operating as normal.”

“23 flights have been cancelled and there are numerous delays due to the consequences.”

“We are working with our airlines and other airport partners to minimize disruption. Passengers should contact their airlines directly for the latest flight information.”

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