A 'TECHNICAL problem' at the air traffic control centre is causing delays at Bournemouth Airport and others across the country.

National Air Traffic Services (Nats) said on Saturday morning that the issue stemmed from its control centre in Swanwick, Hampshire.

A spokesman said: ''Due to a technical problem at Swanwick, we are currently experiencing some difficulty switching from night-time to daytime operation. This may result in some delays, for which we apologise.

''Engineers are working to rectify the problem as soon as possible.''

Bournemouth is experiencing delays with both incoming and departing flights.

An airport spokesman said: ``We had a delay this morning going out to Sweden. It was around an hour and 10 minutes late leaving. It was due to leave at 7.10 but left at around 8.30.

``The inbound flight from Alicante was due to arrive at 9.45 but is now estimated to be here at 12.10.

``Then the outbound service (to Alicante), leaving at 10.10 is estimated to leave at 12.30.''