New data showing the worst UK airports for flight delays may be the “calm before the storm” ahead of the summer holiday season our regular columnist Jane Hawkes, has warned. Jane runs the consumer advice website www.ladyjaney.co.uk, and says that “frustrating” delays may become worse with the increased pressure of new border checks, airspace disruption and rising passenger numbers.

Her comments come as Manchester Airport has been ranked the worst in the UK, with average flight delays of nearly 20 minutes, followed by Birmingham Airport with average delays of 18 minutes and 42 seconds.

The data by the Civil Aviation Authority is deeply frustrating because reliability is now one of the biggest concerns when it comes to booking a holiday.

We can cope with the occasional delay but when an airport repeatedly performs badly it damages confidence and adds unnecessary stress to what should be an exciting experience.

The worry is that this summer will bring even more pressure with new border checks, airspace disruption and rising passenger numbers all likely to create further delays so a 20-minute delay could be the calm before the storm.

Know your rights before you fly so you can be prepared if you face delays.

Flight disruptions can be stressful, but knowing your rights turns frustration into action.

Whether it’s a delay, cancellation, or missed connection, UK law offers clear protections from refunds and rebooking to care, assistance, and compensation.

Keep records, understand when the airline is at fault, and don’t be afraid to escalate if your claim is ignored.

By standing firm and using my tips, you can not only claim back your costs but also send a firm message to the airline that you know your rights and will not be fobbed off.

Persistence beats resistance! If you’re entitled to it, fight for it.

Know your rights in advance

If you know your rights in advance, you can be prepared for when a delay happens. This includes understanding the responsibilities airlines have for passengers around meals, refreshments, communication and hotel accommodation if necessary - even if compensation is not applicable.

If your flight is delayed for more than five hours, you don’t have to take it. If you choose not to, the airline must give you:
a full refund for the flight
a full refund for other flights from the airline that you won’t use in the same booking, e.g. an onward or return flight
if you’re part-way through a journey, a flight back to the airport you originally departed from

Keep a record

If you incur costs because of a delay, make sure you keep the receipts. Food, transport and accommodation costs may be recoverable later if they are considered reasonable but be aware that it will take time to claim them and recoup costs.

Make sure you check to see what the airline is providing before you spend money you are hoping to claim back as if they provide vouchers or a meal, they may not stump up.

Find out what caused the delay
You may be entitled to compensation, but that will depend on what caused the delay and the amount will depend on the length of the delay and of your flight. If the delay is caused by something within the airline’s control and meets the required time thresholds, then make sure to claim. You can find out the rules on compensation on the government website.

Sign up for alerts

With airline apps, emails and notifications, you should be alerted of significant delays before you depart for the airport. This can allow you to make alternative arrangements or plan for a prolonged stay in the airport, which can be especially useful for people who take medication or have specific dietary requirements.

It’s also useful if your flight is delayed by that five-hour cut-off, as you will be able to request a full refund rather than risk hours in a crowded airport.

Delays can quickly become cancellations or rerouting of flights so passengers who act quickly are often in the best position, as the airline will have a duty to get you to your destination.

Get travel insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal, so make sure you have travel insurance that covers disruption and missed connections. Insurance can be an important safety net when airlines refuse claims or wider travel chaos escalates. Don’t skimp on it – it could end up costing you a lot more in the long run.