Travel expert Simon Calder has issued an urgent warning to anyone flying abroad, as more than 40,000 passengers have been left stranded this weekend. The columnist took to X to share a video with fans – and especially anyone flying with British Airways or EasyJet. Calder said: “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.

“The reason? Thunderstorms in the London area, which have caused air traffic control restrictions and as those airports are operating at full stretch, especially on Saturdays in summer, unfortunately there’s no slack in the system and the biggest airlines at those airports have no option but to cancel flights,” he continued.

Calder warned: “BA has cancelled around 100, including an Airbus Super Jumbo going to and from Los Angeles. EasyJet has cancelled 82, including some really long ones to Hurghada in Egypt and also Antalia in Turkey.”

He went on to remind passengers of their rights, stating: “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.

“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.”

On Sunday (June 28), Calder went on to add: “Dozens more flights cancelled on Sunday to and from Heathrow and Gatwick airports by British Airways and easyJet due to poor weather.

“Follows more than 200 grounded flights on Saturday. Brings the number of passengers whose flights have been cancelled this weekend to around 40,000.”