Birmingham Airport 'second worst' for delays as full list revealed

Passengers travelling from Birmingham were left waiting an average of more than 21 minutes beyond scheduled departure times in 2024, according to new figures from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Data, analysed by the PA news agency, reveals that only London Gatwick performed worse, with delays averaging over 23 minutes. Manchester followed Birmingham in third place, with average delays of 20 minutes.

The CAA figures cover scheduled and chartered departures from 22 UK airports that handled over 1,000 outbound flights last year. On average, flights across the country were delayed by 18 minutes and 24 seconds — slightly better than the previous year. Cancellations were not included in the figures.

Flight delays have become a major point of frustration for passengers, particularly during peak holiday periods. Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, said delays are not just logistical problems, but emotional ones for travellers who have often “saved all year” for their getaways.

She added: "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 airports and airlines do all they can to ensure consumer confidence to travel remains high."

Depending on the distance of the route and length of delay, passengers booked on flights from UK airports which are running behind schedule are entitled to assistance such as a reasonable amount of food and drink, a means to communicate and overnight accommodation if required.