The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
This Airport Had the Highest Number of Cancellations in the UK Last Year
More than three per cent of flights were disrupted at the worst performing hub, according to new analysis of official aviation data.
Southampton Tops Disruption Charts Again
Southampton Airport has recorded the highest cancellation rate of all major UK airports for the second consecutive year, according to fresh analysis of Civil Aviation Authority statistics. The regional flight hub, which serves more than 900,000 passengers annually through its terminal in southern England, continues to struggle with operational reliability.
Detailed examination of CAA data conducted by airline compensation specialist AirAdvisor reveals that between January and October 2025, a significant three per cent of scheduled flights at Southampton Airport were cancelled. The Civil Aviation Authority defines a cancelled flight as "the non-operation of a previously planned flight, announced less than 24 hours before or after its scheduled departure time."
This disappointing performance follows a similar pattern from the previous year, when Southampton experienced cancellation rates of 3.1 per cent in 2024. This figure represented almost three times the national average of 1.09 per cent, highlighting a persistent problem at the Hampshire transport hub.
Understanding Flight Cancellation Decisions
It is important to note that the decision to cancel any flight ultimately rests with the operating airline rather than the airport management. A spokesperson for Southampton Airport explained the complex factors behind such decisions, stating: "An airline's decision to reluctantly cancel a flight can be due to a number of factors including weather issues, air traffic congestion, delayed arrivals or technical issues with aircraft."
The airport representative further emphasised their commitment to collaboration, adding: "We will continue to work with our airline partners and their handling agents to support them in their operations."
National Airport Performance Comparison
Following Southampton in the unfortunate rankings were two Scottish airports, with both Aberdeen and Glasgow recording cancellation rates of 1.6 per cent during 2025. The top five worst-performing airports was completed by two facilities serving the UK capital, with London City Airport reporting a cancellation rate of 1.5 per cent last year.
Meanwhile, Heathrow Airport, the nation's busiest aviation hub, experienced cancellation rates of 1.4 per cent between January and November 2025. This performance, while concerning for affected passengers, remains significantly better than Southampton's disruption levels.
Airports Excelling in Operational Reliability
In contrast to these struggling hubs, several UK airports managed to maintain cancellation rates well below the national average. Bournemouth Airport emerged as the standout performer, recording the lowest cancellation rate of any major UK airport in 2025 with just 0.17 per cent of flights cancelled.
Other London-area airports also demonstrated strong operational performance, with Luton Airport reporting only 0.34 per cent cancellations and Stansted Airport achieving a rate of 0.41 per cent. Beyond the capital, Belfast International maintained a respectable record with 0.49 per cent cancellations, while Bristol Airport recorded 0.51 per cent.
This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insight into the varying reliability standards across the UK's aviation network, with Southampton Airport facing particular challenges in maintaining consistent flight operations for its substantial passenger base.
