Travel expert Simon Calder has issued an urgent warning for air travellers after severe thunderstorms in the London area led to the cancellation of more than 200 flights over the weekend, leaving approximately 40,000 passengers stranded. In a video posted on X, Calder addressed passengers flying with British Airways and EasyJet, the two airlines most affected by the disruption.
Thunderstorms Cause Widespread Disruption
Calder explained that thunderstorms in the London region prompted air traffic control restrictions, which combined with airports operating at full capacity—especially on summer Saturdays—left no slack in the system. As a result, British Airways and EasyJet had no option but to cancel flights. “It has been a miserable Saturday for 30,000 or more passengers on British Airways to and from London Heathrow and EasyJet in and out of Gatwick,” Calder said.
British Airways cancelled around 100 flights, including an Airbus Super Jumbo service to and from Los Angeles. EasyJet cancelled 82 flights, some of which were long-haul routes to Hurghada in Egypt and Antalya in Turkey. On Sunday, June 28, Calder reported that dozens more flights were cancelled at Heathrow and Gatwick due to continued poor weather, bringing the total number of grounded flights over the weekend to more than 200.
Passenger Rights and Advice
Calder reminded affected passengers of their rights under air passenger rights rules. “The airline must get you to your destination as soon as possible, including booking a flight on another airline if necessary,” he said. “Meanwhile, they have to provide you with hotel accommodation and meals as necessary until they get you where you need to be. You will not, though, be getting any cash compensation. Good luck, everybody.”
The travel expert emphasised that while airlines are obligated to rebook passengers and provide care, compensation is not applicable because the cancellations were caused by extraordinary weather circumstances beyond the airlines' control. He urged travellers to stay informed and contact their airlines promptly to secure alternative arrangements.
Impact on Travelers
Thousands of passengers faced significant delays and uncertainty as they attempted to rebook flights or seek accommodation. The disruption occurred at one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with many families heading off on summer holidays. Calder’s warning highlighted the lack of resilience in the aviation system when faced with adverse weather, particularly at major hubs like Heathrow and Gatwick.
Both British Airways and EasyJet have advised passengers to check their flight status before travelling to the airport and to allow extra time for their journeys. The airlines are working to accommodate affected customers on alternative flights as quickly as possible.
