BBCLondon airspace has been closed until 19:00 GMT after a computer failure, air traffic controllers have said.
The news was announced in a brief message on flight safety body Eurocontrol’s website.
UK air traffic controllers Nats confirmed a “technical problem” at its Swanwick control centre in Hampshire.
It said in a statement “every possible action” was being taken to resolve the problem.
London’s airports reported:
- at Heathrow Airport flights were “currently experiencing delays” and planes could be turned away
- Incoming flights to Gatwick are continuing to land and all departing flights grounded
- Stansted say it is currently working with Nats to find out how it will affect the airport
Eurocontrol said: “There has been a failure of the flight data computer server at London ACC [area control centre].
“Engineers are working on the problem and more information will be given when available.”