Published on April 3, 2026
New research examining Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) data from Easter 2024 and 2025 has revealed a significant difference in the reliability of UK airports during the holiday season. Smaller regional hubs have emerged as the most punctual airports, while larger international airports struggle with higher rates of delays.
The study highlights that regional airports, such as Exeter, Southampton, and Durham Tees Valley, consistently maintained impressive on-time performance during the Easter travel period. With the growing preference for domestic trips and shorter travel times, these airports have become increasingly appealing to holidaymakers looking to avoid the long queues and congestion often associated with larger airports.
In contrast, major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester experienced notable delays. The complexity of operations and a higher volume of passengers during peak holiday periods contribute to these delays, making the travel experience less predictable and more frustrating for travellers. The research indicates that larger airports often face challenges in managing the influx of passengers, leading to operational bottlenecks.
Industry experts suggest that the findings could encourage more holidaymakers to consider flying from regional airports. “These smaller hubs offer a more straightforward and efficient experience,” explains a spokesperson for the aviation sector. “As we see a trend towards local travel, these airports are well-equipped to handle the demand.”
The study also points out that passengers flying from smaller airports reported higher levels of satisfaction, attributed to shorter queues, less crowded terminals, and faster check-in processes. As the travel industry continues to recover from the impacts of the pandemic, the appeal of regional airports is likely to grow further, prompting airlines to expand their routes from these locations.
As the Easter holiday approaches, travellers are urged to check the punctuality of their chosen airports and consider the benefits of opting for smaller regional hubs. With changing travel habits and increased awareness of airport reliability, this study may well influence decisions for future holiday travels.
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