London flights cancelled and rescheduled to respect the Queen’s funeral

Heathrow Airport has announced airlines are being required to adjust their flight schedules to accommodate the plans for Queen Elizabeth II’s farewell.

“Heathrow, NATS and airlines are supporting the ceremonial aspects for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s State Funeral at Westminster Abbey and the Committal Service at Windsor Castle on Monday 19th September,” a Heathrow spokesperson has said via statement.

“As a mark of respect, operations to and from the airport will be subject no to appropriate changes in order to avoid noise disturbance at certain locations at specific times on Monday.

“Heathrow and airlines are working closely with NATS to minimise the impact of these restrictions on passengers.

“We apologise in advance for the inconvenience some passengers will experience as a result of these exceptional circumstances.”

There will be no aircraft movement for 30 minutes around noon on Monday to ensure skies remain quiet during the two-minute silence at the end of the funeral, while flights will also be diverted around Windsor Castle during the private family service, local media has reported.

Heathrow Airport has said passengers affected by the flight changes will be contacted directly by their airlines.

People travelling to Heathrow Airport on Monday are also being urged to use public transport, with the roads expected to be extremely busy.

Heathrow Airport has also announced it will observe the National Moment of Reflection with a one-minute silence at 8pm on Sunday, while the Queen’s funeral will be broadcast on screens at the airport on Monday and non-essential shops will not open.