Travel chaos at Manchester Airport as electronic gates go down due to ‘nationwide’ blackout.

Tourists are facing travel chaos at Manchester Airport this evening due to a ‘nationwide disruption’.

Electronic border gates at passport control have been affected by a technical problem at several UK airports, including Manchester, Heathrow, Stansted and Gatwick. Liverpool John Lennon Airport does not have electronic gates.

However, an LJLA spokesman confirmed that the issues are affecting other Border Force IT systems, which may cause some delays for passengers arriving in Liverpool this evening.

It is not yet clear what caused the technical problems. Photos shared on social media show huge queues at border control at Manchester Airport as tourists return to Britain.

Manchester Airport tweeted: “UK Border Force are experiencing nationwide issues affecting eGates at several airports including Manchester. Our teams are supporting UK Border Force staff to minimize disruption to passengers while they resolve the issue.

“We apologize for any inconvenience caused during this time and thank you for your patience and understanding.”

Heathrow Airport also tweeted to say: “We are aware that the Border Force is currently dealing with a nationwide issue affecting passengers being processed through the border. Our teams are supporting the Border Force with their contingency plans to help resolve the issue as quickly as possible. and we apologize for any impact on your journey.”

Liverpool Airport has been contacted for comment.

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