easyJet flights at Southend Airport surrounded by uncertainly

It comes amid reports of passengers being hit by delays and cancellations similar to those witnessed at other major UK airports.

One radio presenter claimed on Twitter he was stranded at Gatwick after his return flight to Southend was re-routed.

BBC Essex has also reported a Leigh couple having their anniversary holiday plans thrown into chaos after their flight with easyJet from Southend was cancelled with less than a fortnight’s notice.

Tony Cox, leader of the Southend Conservatives, admits the growing uncertainty is unwelcome news.

He said: “These reports about issues with easyJet at Southend Airport are concerning.

“I know there have been issues at other airports and it seems to be down to staff shortages.

“It doesn’t give people much confidence in their ability to book a holiday and get away. I think it’s hard to say exactly how it will affect the airport but I don’t think it’s just about one company.

“It’s disappointing if we are getting these issues at Southend Airport and we need to be seeing the airport thriving and building back up to where it was.

“We do not want to see anything like this happening at Southend Airport and the best thing that can happen is for it to be resolved as quickly as possible.”

The Echo approached easyJet for comment on its flights and services from Southend Airport.

It was unable to provide specific details on cancellations, with a spokesman adding: “easyJet is operating up to 1,700 flights carrying up to a quarter of a million customers daily.

“There are industry wide operational issues that are impacting airlines at the moment, which means we have made a number of pre-emptive cancellations.

“We have informed customers in advance to minimise the impact on their plans and provide the option to rebook before travelling or receive a refund, and our customer service hours have been extended to support affected customers.”

Southend Airport declined to comment.