Indians stranded as UK air traffic failure cancels 2,000+ flights; Air India, IndiGo services hit

The UK's air traffic control system experienced a technical failure that caused widespread flight disruption, according to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander. The issue, which affected over 2,000 flights and continued for a second day, resulted from a failure in the system operated by NATS. Alexander ordered an independent investigation by the aviation watchdog into the system and expressed her belief that the problem was avoidable.

NATS, which is 49% owned by the government, has apologized for its third major technical fault in three years. Alexander discussed with NATS boss Martin Rolfe how the company responded to resolve and minimize the disruption, while also raising concerns about consumer redress issues. The government maintains confidence in Rolfe, who has led NATS for 11 years, despite calls from airlines such as Wizz Air and Ryanair for him to step down.

Airlines UK, representing the country's carriers, expressed serious concerns over the technical failure, stating that airlines pick up the bill for the mistakes of others while the responsible organizations face little or no financial consequence. The Civil Aviation Authority has stated that passengers are unlikely to be entitled to compensation for the delays and cancellations caused by the incident.