Gatwick passenger numbers soar as strikes hit flight punctuality

Demand for travel results in 41% rise but air traffic control industrial action across Europe affects timings

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Passenger numbers at Gatwick airport soared to 19 million during the first six months of the year, according to its operator, although air traffic control strikes across Europe contributed to a rise in delayed departures and landings.

Demand for travel resulted in 41% more passengers travelling through the airport between January and June compared with 2022 - when Covid restrictions were still in place - Gatwick said as it released half-year results.