Snow freezes relations between Gatwick and easyJet

​A BUDGET airline has accused Gatwick Airport of misleading passengers over delays caused by freezing weather.

EasyJet says it is “disappointed” the airport is operating far below capacity while claiming to be fully open.

But airport bosses have hit back, insisting outbound flights have not been restricted and incoming flights have not been affected as badly as easyJet claims.

Earlier today (Thursday), an easyJet spokesman said: “Contrary to media reports, Gatwick Airport is not fully open for business today.

“In fact, only a small number of flights are being allowed to depart each hour and there are currently no arrivals due to restrictions imposed by the airport and air traffic control.

“This is exacerbating the weather disruption many airlines are currently facing.

“Safety is the number one priority, but easyJet is disappointed that the UK’s second largest airport is operating a small percentage of its capacity and is still unable to confirm when it will be fully operational, thus enabling the airline to return to normal operations.

“The airport’s statements, implying that they are fully open, are not helpful to passengers at this difficult time. “

Speaking to the News this afternoon, an airport spokeswoman said: “We have not had any restrictions on outbound aircraft today. There were restrictions on inbound traffic this morning.

“We have made it very clear flights are likely to be subject to some delay and disruption.”

The spokeswoman agreed easyJet’s outbound flights have not been operating as normal, but said this was not because of airport restrictions.