Gatwick: Thousands of holidaymakers see flights cancelled amid severe weather

More than 15,000 holidaymakers have seen their flights cancelled after a storm suspended activity at Gatwick.

EasyJet axed 54 flights on Sunday, while a further 55 were grounded on Monday. Further storms are expected.

The airline said it was "impacted by thunderstorm activity" on Sunday, with a knock-on effect on Monday as aircraft and crew were unavailable.

It has apologised to customers but said the safety of customers and crew was its highest priority.

The airline's website said flights were cancelled due to "poor weather conditions across the UK and Europe", which caused "extended air traffic control restrictions".

It said the disruption was outside of its control, meaning it will not pay flight delay compensation.

An EasyJet spokesman added: "We are doing all possible to minimise the impact on 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 for the inconvenience caused."

Gatwick apologised, explaining: "Temporary air traffic restrictions were put in place, which resulted in some flights being delayed and cancelled."

It said further thunderstorms were expected on Monday and urged passengers to contact their airline for further information.

Meanwhile, Gatwick Express, which runs non-stop trains between the airport and central London, has been suspended.

The operator said it was due to "urgent repairs to the track" after a set of points - which allow trains to move from one line to another - were damaged in the East Croydon area.

Passengers travelling to or from the airport were advised to use Southern and Thameslink services.

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