Katy Austin

A 90-second power outage at Network Rail’s Manchester operating centre disrupted signalling and stranded trains and crews across the North West and beyond. Although backup systems were available, communications and signalling equipment failed to respond as expected, prompting an investigation and promises to improve resilience. Experts questioned whether concentrating railway control in a small number of operating centres has increased systemic risk, while also linking the incident to Network Rail’s funding pressures, staffing cuts and the wider government plan to create Great British Railways.

A power failure lasting around 90 seconds at Network Rail’s Manchester operating centre disrupted signalling and caused widespread train chaos across the North West and beyond. Network Rail says some communications systems failed to recover as expected and that damaged signalling equipment required replacement; it has apologised and opened an investigation. Experts warn that consolidating railway control into a small number of operating centres increases the consequences of a single failure, while funding pressures, staffing levels and extreme weather add to concerns about resilience. The incident comes as the government plans to integrate rail operations and infrastructure under Great British Railways and abolish Network Rail as a separate entity.

Government-backed e-scooter trials across England have expanded as usage grows, but delays in deciding whether to legalise and regulate private e-scooters have left a widening gap between law and reality. Riders value their convenience for short, urban trips, yet concerns over safety, enforcement challenges, and widespread illegal use persist. Police report rising incidents, while casualty data shows young males are most affected. Experts and devolved administrations are frustrated by Westminster’s slow progress, noting that clear rules could improve safety and reduce misuse. New findings from ongoing evaluations are expected within a year, but uncertainty continues as cities abroad scale back or end shared e-scooter schemes.

RMT plans strike action at East Midlands Railway over concerns that new Class 810 Aurora trains are entering service with significant faults and temporary loss of safety‑critical systems during resets. EMR rejects claims the fleet fails to meet safety standards but acknowledges performance and reliability issues and is working with Hitachi Rail to address them. The dispute follows ongoing problems affecting both new and older train classes, with fleet rollout continuing into 2027.

The UK Competition and Markets Authority is investigating Euro Car Parks over whether issuing parking charges to drivers queuing at petrol forecourts is fair, as part of a wider review of potentially unfair practices in the private parking sector. The regulator has raised concerns about unclear signage, faulty apps, broken machines and inconsistent appeals processes, urging operators to ensure compliance with consumer law. Parking trade bodies are reviewing the CMA’s guidance, while the RAC supports the investigation and calls for a single independent appeals body. The inquiry is in its evidence-gathering phase and will run until spring 2027.

A British Airways aircraft experiencing a technical issue temporarily closed a runway at Gatwick Airport, causing several flight diversions. An EasyJet flight from Rome was rerouted to Stansted, where passengers remained onboard for more than two hours due to the lack of available ground handling staff and refuelling capability. Most diverted flights later returned to Gatwick. Airlines issued apologies, and passengers were advised on reimbursement and their rights under UK flight disruption regulations.

A technical issue with a British Airways aircraft temporarily closed a runway at Gatwick Airport, causing several flights to be diverted. An EasyJet flight from Rome was redirected to Stansted, where passengers waited more than two hours due to refuelling difficulties linked to the lack of ground handling staff. Gatwick reported the runway closure was brief, while both airlines stated passengers were safe, and EasyJet advised customers to claim reimbursement for onward travel. Compensation rules under UK law were outlined for travellers affected by cancellations or delays.

EU airport operators and airlines warn that long delays caused by the new Entry‑Exit System are disrupting travel, with some passengers missing flights due to queues lasting up to two hours in Berlin and up to five hours in peak periods elsewhere. Berlin Airport’s chief executive says the system’s complexity and varying national implementations prevent smooth processing, while passenger accounts highlight widespread equipment failures and operational bottlenecks. Airlines urge the European Commission and member states to adopt contingency measures or allow suspension of checks where necessary. The Commission acknowledges issues linked to insufficient staffing and infrastructure but says the system works in most airports and support can be increased ahead of the summer peak.

Long queues of up to two hours are affecting non‑EU travellers at Berlin Airport under the EU’s new Entry‑Exit System, prompting warnings that delays will worsen during summer. Travellers report missed flights and inconsistent implementation across member states, with airlines and airport groups urging the European Commission to allow temporary suspension of checks. The Commission says issues stem from inadequate staffing and infrastructure in some countries but maintains the system is functioning well in most airports while offering additional support for the peak season.

Passengers on the Tui-operated Skyla river cruise were stranded in Budapest during a heatwave after the ship’s air conditioning failed, leaving many — including elderly travellers — distressed by high temperatures. Tui apologised, arranged flights home, and offered full refunds and vouchers after cancelling the cruise. Reports indicate the issue may have persisted from previous sailings, despite Tui describing it as a new problem.

Passengers on a Tui-operated river cruise in Budapest were stranded for two days after the ship's air conditioning failed during a heatwave. Elderly travellers reported severe discomfort, with temperatures exceeding 35C, and said they received limited information. Tui apologised, arranged flights home, and offered a full refund plus a voucher after cancelling the cruise. Reports indicate previous air conditioning problems on the same vessel, despite Tui stating the current issue is new.