BA criticises Heathrow over flight delays

British Airways today hit out at Heathrow airport for adding to the flight chaos caused by the bomb plot security alert.

The airline’s chief executive said it was forced to cancel some flights while others had to leave before passengers could board them.

Willie Walsh blamed the British Airports Authority who run Heathrow for being unable to deal with increased security and baggage checks.

“The airport’s baggage system cannot process all of the passengers’ bags and where passengers have been able to check their bags in, the lengthy queues in the airport security search area means that passengers are unable to get to the departure gate in time for their flight,” he said.

Mr Walsh said BA had to cancel 25 per cent of its shorthaul services today “many” other flights left without all passengers.