Thousands of easyJet passengers flying to and from Gatwick have had their flights cancelled due to storms in the last 24 hours.
More than 54 of the budget carrier’s flights scheduled for Sunday evening did not operate due to what the airport described as “intense thunderstorms” in the area after the weekend heat.
The airline cancelled a similar number on Monday due to the knock-on effects, with planes out of position for the day’s flights.
About 15,000 passengers on easyJet – by far the largest carrier at the airport – are understood to be affected. The airport has warned travellers to check before departure as further weather issues are forecast.
Passengers are not entitled to compensation for storm cancellations under the EU261 regulation – which still applies in the UK – because severe weather is outside the airline’s control. They should, however, be rebooked on another flight at no extra cost and helped with food and accommodation.
An easyJet spokesperson said: “Thunderstorms in the Gatwick area which restricted the number of arrivals and departures on Sunday unfortunately resulted in disruption at London Gatwick airport, including some diversions and cancellations which is having a knock-on impact this morning as a number of aircraft are out of position.
“We are doing all possible to minimise the impact on our customers, providing those on cancelled flights with options to rebook or receive a refund as well as hotel accommodation and meals where required.
“The safety and wellbeing of customers and crew is easyJet’s highest priority and, while this is outside of our control, we would like to apologise to customers for the inconvenience caused.”
A Gatwick spokesperson said: “Due to unsettled weather conditions and thunderstorms across the south of England and Europe yesterday, temporary air traffic restrictions were put in place, which resulted in some flights being delayed and cancelled.
“London Gatwick apologises to passengers for any inconvenience. Further thunderstorms are expected today, so passengers should contact their airline for further information.”
The consumer group Which? said that while easyJet did not have to pay compensation for these cancellations, it should reroute affected passengers at the earliest opportunity, including on other carriers if necessary.
Fast trains to the airport have also been suspended for urgent track repairs. Gatwick Express, which runs non-stop trains from central London, is not expected to run until at least Tuesday due to damaged points around East Croydon, although other train services are available.
