However, Mr Walsh said the failure of the backup system was “unacceptable” and that a thorough investigation was required to identify the cause of the chaos. “Based on what they’ve said so far, I don’t think we have the confidence to say it wouldn’t happen again,” he said.
“I would expect there to be a detailed investigation in the UK involving the government and the Civil Aviation Authority to establish what exactly went strong and to ensure that this does not happen again.”38:28 “What really frustrates airlines is that they’re not in a position to recoup any of this money. Airlines are left to pick up the pieces.”
Mr Walsh, who was speaking on RTÉ radio, added it will take days before air travel in and around Britain and Ireland returns to normal.