Affected passengers are not entitled to compensation under UK consumer law as the airline has no control over the cause of the disruption.

But they should be offered new flight options and assistance, such as food and drink, and overnight accommodations if necessary.

A Gatwick airport spokeswoman said: “Due to unstable weather conditions and thunderstorms across the south of England and Europe yesterday, temporary air traffic restrictions were put in place, causing some flights to be delayed and cancelled.

“London Gatwick apologizes to passengers for any inconvenience caused.

“More thunderstorms are expected today, so passengers should contact their airline for more information.”

Meanwhile, the Gatwick Express, which runs non-stop trains between the airport and central London, was suspended on Monday.

The operator said this was due to “urgent track repairs” after a series of switches – allowing trains to run from one line to another – was damaged in the East Croydon area.

Passengers traveling to or from the airport were advised to use the Southern and Thameslink services, which are slower as they stop at intermediate stations.

Jo Rhodes, deputy editor of consumer magazine Which? Travel, said: “Thousands of travelers will be frustrated that their plans have been disrupted due to thunderstorms over Gatwick.

“While easyJet will not have to pay compensation for these cancellations, it must offer affected passengers the option of a refund or re-routing as soon as possible, even if this means booking seats with a rival airline to to have as little delay as possible.

“For delays of more than two hours, passengers are entitled to assistance such as free meals or refreshments, and accommodation if necessary.”