British Airways Flight Delays and Cancellations: Today’s Live Updates

Written By Joanna Teljeur

Last Updated: January 22, 2025

Smart travellers are always prepared, and one of the best ways to prepare for your flight is to keep track of its status. Extensive delays and cancellations are fairly uncommon, but less problematic flight disruptions like shorter delays are still a regular occurrence.

How Frequently Are BA Flights Disrupted?

In 2023, 78% of British Airways flights arrived on time overall, which is pretty good, but not outstanding. To put this in context, in OAG’s 2023 On-Time Performance report, the carrier placed 17th among the world’s Mega airlines with a punctuality rating of 64%. But when compared to other European airlines, BA didn’t even rank in OAG’s report.

On the bright side, the delays were relatively short. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the average delay time for BA flights was only about 12 minutes, while only 2.3% of flights were cancelled in 2023. 

British Airways’ punctuality seems to be improving! In the first 6 months of 2024, roughly 75% of the carrier's flights arrived when they were supposed to, but according to data from ONS, the length of delays has grown to 14 minutes. Meanwhile the cancellation rate has stayed the same at 2.4%.   

British Airways Routes with the Most Delays

Another great way to stay informed is to check the delay frequency for your specific trip. The table below will give you a snapshot of the BA flights most likely to be delayed. 

Did you know that if your BA flight was delayed or cancelled anytime in the last 3 years, you can still submit a claim for compensation? Check to see how much you could get by entering your flight details below.Check Your Flight

Why Was Your BA Flight Delayed?

Outside regional issues that can affect multiple countries and countless passengers like the Crowdsource IT outage, British Airways flights can get delayed or cancelled because of other reasons like simply not having enough passengers. 

In summer months, airline strikes can also create problems for passengers. In addition, tropical storms, ice, high winds, staffing inefficiencies, or even basic mechanical or maintenance needs can cause numerous delays. Not sure what’s behind your flight disruption? Just ask a BA rep directly.

What To Do if Your Flight is Cancelled or Delayed

No matter which carrier you fly with, you’ll probably encounter a flight disruption at some point. So, when you do, don’t get too worried because airlines are required to help passengers make it to their destination as quickly as possible. 

So if you have a British Airways cancellation, get rebooked onto a new flight. If you have a delay, ask what caused it and be sure to ask for meal and hotel vouchers. And don’t forget to check to see how much compensation you could be owed for the inconvenience. 

As a UK airline, BA is subject to the rules of UK Regulation 261, and that means you could be owed compensation up to £520 for your trouble. 

Avoiding British Airways Flight Delays and Cancellations

1. If you’re travelling to Chicago, Hong Kong or New York (JFK), pay close attention to weather conditions and other situations that can contribute to delays.
2. Book your flight earlier in the day as earlier flights tend to have fewer disruptions.
3. Get direct flights rather than those with connections.
4. If connections are unavoidable, allow enough time between flights.
5. Stay informed about your flight by using the BA flight delays list. This will help you make better decisions and know when to rebook your flight if necessary

Check the List of BA Delayed and Cancelled Flights

If you see that your BA flight was cancelled or delayed in the list above, all you have to do is select it. You’ll then see a page that shows you how much compensation you could claim and explains your passenger rights. Good luck and safe travels!