Hundreds of passengers were left stranded at Stansted Airport during the early hours of this morning because of baggage delays.

The airport and Ryanair both apologised for the delays, blaming a significant number of inbound flight delays due to poor weather.

Passengers took to social media to vent their frustration, with some claiming all ePassport gates had been closed, leading to queues of “thousands”.

A spokesman for Stansted Airport said: “Due to a significant number of inbound flights arriving late, during a short period of time outside of expected operating hours, passengers experienced delays receiving their baggage.

“Airlines and ground handling partners called in additional staff to help manage the situation and mitigate delays.

“Our own staff helped provided passengers with information and handed out water during the period.

“On behalf of our airlines, handling agents and the airport we apologise for the delays and inconvenience caused to passengers.”

Oliver Williams, from London, described the airport as an "absolute
shambles".

He said: "All staff have disappeared, hundreds of passengers awaiting
baggage for hours and no water available."
 

A spokesman for Ryanair said: “Following earlier weather delays on flights arriving into London Stansted yesterday, a number of aircraft landed outside of scheduled operating hours, which resulted in some handling delays.

“We sincerely apologise to affected customers and have asked our handling agent at Stansted, Swissport, to take the necessary steps to ensure this does not recur.”