Low-cost carrier Vueling is facing an inquiry and possible fine in Spain after a series of cancellations over the last few days.
More than 8,000 passengers have been affected by 46 cancellations at Vueling’s home airport, El Prat in Barcelona, over the last few days with many travellers facing delays of up to 12 hours.
The airline, which is owned by IAG and is a sister company to British Airways, has blamed the problems on “operational difficulties” without giving further details.
Spanish authorities said that Vueling would face an inquiry over the problems which could lead to a fine.
Vueling’s commercial director David Garcia Blancas said: “The company would like to reiterate the message that it is sorry to all of the passengers who have been affected by the operational difficulties during the last few days.
“All passengers who have suffered a cancellation have been reallocated a seat in the next available flight or - including in cases of delays of more than three hours - we have offered a refund of the value of the ticket to those who no longer wish to fly.”