Why Do Flights Get Delayed?

Most delays have one of a few causes: weather, a late incoming aircraft, air traffic or airport congestion, technical or crew issues, and passenger or baggage handling. A single early delay often spreads through the day.

Weather

Fog, storms, strong wind and dust reduce visibility or make landing unsafe. See weather and flights in Pakistan.

Aircraft rotation

An aircraft normally flies several flights a day. If the first flight is late, every later flight on that aircraft is late too. This is the most common reason for afternoon and evening delays.

Air traffic control

Busy skies, closed airspace or runway sequencing can make aircraft wait or fly extra distance. See holding pattern.

Airport operations

Late gates, ramp handling, fuelling, catering, cleaning, security checks and baggage loading all take time, and any can slip.

Technical and crew issues

An aircraft with a fault needs inspection or repair before it can fly. Crews have limits on duty time, so a late flight can make a crew run out of legal hours.

Passengers

Late-arriving passengers or long boarding can hold a departure. Missing passengers’ bags may have to be removed.

Why you may not be told the exact reason

Airlines give a brief reason. Standard coded causes are used internally; see airline delay code.

What to do

See how to check if your flight is delayed and what to do if your flight is cancelled.

General information only, not legal or safety advice. Details change; check with your airline and the relevant authority. See our editorial policy.