The first bout of heavy snow and ice this winter forced multiple flights to be cancelled and delayed across the country.
Bad weather forced the suspension of services from Stansted as its runway was temporarily shut while passengers using Heathrow and Gatwick faced disruption due to snow, ice and freezing fog.
More than 90 flights at Heathrow were cancelled as air traffic control restrictions were imposed due to freezing fog while over 30 flights at Gatwick were delayed or diverted.
A Met Office yellow warning for snow, ice and fog for much of the country followed disruption at Manchester airport on Saturday morning as both runways were shut due to heavy show.
Travellers have been urged to check the status of their flights with airlines before leaving for the airport today (Monday).
Gatwick said on Twitter: “Snow and freezing weather may cause disruption at the airport. Passengers are advised to check flight status with their airline – and also local travel conditions – before departing for the airport.”
Responding to customers it added: “Some flights were delayed due to a shortage of ‘de-icing rigs’.
“This situation has improved however continued freezing weather is causing further delays and some cancellations.”
British Airways said: “Due to continuing adverse winter weather conditions across the United Kingdom, we have had to reduce our schedule across our London airports on Sunday 11th December and Monday 12th December.
“We’re very sorry for the disruption and are taking steps to ensure as many as possible are able to travel as planned. Customers whose flights have been cancelled are being offered the option to rebook onto alternative flights and we’re handing out refreshment vouchers and offering hotel accommodation where needed.
“Any customers on cancelled flights, who no longer wish to travel, can accept a full refund. Customers can find details of their consumer rights at ba.com/helpme.
“Before travelling to the airport, please check your flight status.”
A Luton airport spokesperson warned that there could be disruption to flights and also advised passengers to allow extra time when travelling to the airport.
Lisa Webb, consumer law expert at Which?, said: “If your flight is cancelled due to snow, you will be entitled to a refund or rebooking, including with other carriers if necessary.
“However, you are unlikely to be owed additional compensation as extreme weather is considered an extraordinary circumstance, outside of the airline’s control.”