British Airways issue warning for anyone flying out of UK’s busiest airports

Passengers flying from Heathrow or Gatwick next month were told they are at risk of delays and should plan ahead.

British Airways said they ‘strongly advise’ people to give themselves longer to get to the airports due to major roadworks planned near London, which could cause traffic james.

The problems could be seen on eight days in March, when a section of the M25 motorway ring road will be closed entirely.

In an advisory to passengers, British Airways (BA) said: ‘We strongly advise you to plan your journey in advance and allow for extra time to reach the airport.’

The M25 will be closed between junction 10 (Wisley) to 11 (Woking) in both directions from March 7 to 10, and then again from March 21 to 24.

This is so that old bridges over the road can be demolished and removed.

In each block of dates, which take place over weekends, the closure will begin at 9pm on the first day and end at 6am on the fourth day.

So it’s really March 8 and 9, and March 22 and 23 which will be the worst affected – and bad luck if that’s when your flight is booked.

BA said: ‘A diversion will be in place but please allow extra time and plan ahead for your journey to the airport.’

National Highways has also announced that the A3 will be closed in both directions from April 11 to 14, between Junction 10 and Cobham Roundabout/A245.

All closures will start at 9pm on Friday evening and be lifted by 6am on Monday morning.

Driving to the airport may not be the end of your woes, however, as if you’re only dropping off a passenger, you may be liable to pay a free, even if you’re only there a few minutes.

Heathrow’s drop-off charge increased from £5 to £6 on January 1 (but if this seems steep, the airport also offers a long-stay car park which passengers can use free of charge for 30 minutes). For Blue Badge holders parking is free for two hours. 

The minimum drop-off charge at Gatwick is £6 for up to 10 minutes and then an additional £1 for each additional minute for up to 20 minutes. 

The airport’s long-stay car park meanwhile, is free for the first two hours for drop-offs or collections. Those who want to avoid paying the fees can take the free 10-minute shuttle bus from the car park.

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