TUI has apologised after passengers were left stranded. The issues was caused by a technical issue on one of its planes. Holidaymakers expecting to jet off to Turkey were told to leave the aircraft just before take-off.
Devon Live reports the technical issue left the TUI passengers stranded overnight. One annoyed passenger said they were told the plane was carrying too much fuel. The flight had been due to leave from Exeter Airport on Saturday but was delayed until Sunday.
They eventually boarded once again 16 hours later and the flight left for Alanya at 8.40am on Sunday.
A spokesperson for Tui apologised to those affected. They said: "We completely understand the frustration of customers who were due to be on flight FHY546 from Exeter yesterday and we would like to apologise for the delay in their journey.
Poll: What's the best butchers in Nottinghamshire? Have your say here
"The flight, operated by Freebird, experienced a technical issue prior to take off. As a precaution, all customers needed to be disembarked so that engineers could carry out an inspection and resolve the problem.
"Due to hotel availability in Exeter, customers were required to return home. Expenses can be claimed back for travel and sustenance expenses. Those customers travelling on a TUI package will receive a one-day pro rata refund.
"All customers received full communications on how to claim back expenses, as well as details of how to claim compensation from Freebird in accordance with EU regulations. Passengers are now on their way to destination, and we thank them for their patience and understanding.
"The aircraft was in full working order when customers boarded the aircraft however, once the captain completed final checks encountered a weight restriction performance issue. As a precaution, all customers needed to be disembarked so that our engineers could carry out an inspection and resolve the problem."
READ NEXT:
