Thousands of passengers have been caught up in disruption at UK airports following a technical problem with air traffic control on 8 September 2026, which led to widespread flight cancellations.
If your flight was one of those affected, you might also be wondering what happens to the train ticket you booked to get to or from the airport.
The good news is you may not need to buy another one.
The information below relates specifically to passengers affected by the flight disruption on 8 and 9 September 2026.
Can I use my train ticket on another day?
If you have a rail ticket to or from an airport dated 8 or 9 September and your flight has been disrupted, you can use your original train ticket on the date your flight has been rebooked to.
This covers Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance tickets, as well as Rovers and Rangers, Interrail and BritRail passes. Connecting rail services are included too.
You’ll need evidence of what’s happened to your flight. If you’re heading to the airport for a rearranged flight, take your new airline ticket with you. If your flight was cancelled and you’re travelling home, your cancellation email can be used as evidence.
Already travelled to the airport?
If you’ve made it all the way to the airport only to have your flight cancelled, you may be able to use the return part of your rail ticket to travel home that same day, even if it was booked for another day.
Again, keep your cancelled airline ticket or cancellation email with you.
Crossing London?
There is one slightly awkward bit to be aware of.
If your rail ticket is valid for travel across London, you can use the Elizabeth line on the alternative date your flight has been rebooked to.
The Underground is different. If you’re travelling on a different day from the date printed on your ticket, you’ll need to use contactless/pay as you go or buy a separate ticket for the Tube.
Has your flight been moved to another airport?
This is where you need to be careful.
The arrangements only apply to the airport on your original rail ticket. So if you were due to fly from Heathrow but your airline has moved you to a flight from Gatwick, your existing train ticket doesn’t automatically cover the journey to Gatwick.
You may need a new train ticket. If you haven’t used your original one, you may also be entitled to a refund depending on the ticket you hold.
What about my seat reservation?
If you travel on a different day, your original seat reservation won’t carry across. Your ticket may still be valid, but unfortunately your reserved seat won’t be.
What if I’m no longer travelling?
If the flight disruption means you’re not travelling at all, flexible rail tickets affected by the disruption can be eligible for a fee-free refund.
Advance tickets are a little different, so if you booked through TrainSplit and you’re not sure what applies to your booking, get in touch with us and we’ll have a look at your options.
And before setting off for the airport, definitely check the latest information directly with your airline.
Hopefully things settle down quickly, but at least if your flight has been moved, your train ticket might not have gone to waste as well.