Airlines don’t have to offer compensation because technical issues with the UK’s air traffic control service NATS aren’t their fault – but they still have an obligation to keep passengers comfortable if there are significant delays at airports.

Hundreds of flights were cancelled on Monday after the UK’s air traffic control systems were hit by a major technical fault – with thousands of passengers stranded.

And amid concerns that disruption could last well into this week, Britons stuck abroad – and those planning to travel in the coming days – will want to know what their rights are.

There’s good news and bad news. While you’re entitled to some support, airlines do not have to provide compensation for delays and cancellations because these technical faults are classified as “extraordinary circumstances”

Airlines do have an obligation to keep passengers comfortable in the event of a “significant delay” – with the Civil Aviation Authority setting out a clear definition of what meets this threshold.

For long-haul flights going any further than this, four hours or longer counts as a significant delay.

This applies to all passengers flying from a UK airport, returning to the country on a British or European airline, or arriving in the EU on a UK carrier.

Will I get compensation?

This is where the bad news kicks in.

Usually, airlines do have to provide compensation if their flights arrive three hours late – but air traffic control problems don’t count because these technical issues aren’t their fault.

And if you agree to travel on a later flight, the airline is no longer obliged to offer food, drink or accommodation while you wait.

Thankfully, you are entitled to a full refund if you decide to abandon your journey after five hours of delays.

What if I’m about to travel?

Transfer passengers who end up missing a connecting flight because their first plane was delayed are entitled to a service back to their original departure point.

But things get a little more complicated for passengers on package holidays – especially if they decide not to travel on a delayed outbound flight.

The CAA’s guidance says: “You may lose your holiday too, so we recommend you contact your package organiser or the airline for further information.

“If you still want to travel then your airline must get you to your destination. You might have to be patient while they rearrange transport and rebook passengers, but the law says they must get you there.”

Many travellers end up booking their flights, hotels and excursions separately – and if you’re unable to cancel your accommodation or activities, you may be able to claim back on your travel insurance if it’s a comprehensive policy.