BAA, the operator of London Heathrow airport, is facing mounting anger from airlines, passengers and the UK government as the chaos caused by snow and ice enters its fifth day. Airline chiefs quoted in local media have said that they were “staggered at the incompetence” of BAA in failing to keep the airport running.
BAA chief executive Colin Matthews apologised for the continued problems, saying to BBC reporters that BAA may well need to buy more snow ploughs. “It has been a challenge for our equipment to get rid of the ice with the temperatures we are experiencing,” said a BAA spokesperson.
Although no more snow is forecast, the situation is expected to take a few more days until it gets back to normal.
Again passengers have been told to check with their airlines before travelling to the airport.
London Gatwick airport, however, has returned to almost normal operation.