The body’s flying programme completed 54 flights in its third day of operation on Wednesday, returning 11,287 people to the UK.

Today (Thursday October), day four of the flying programme, the CAA plans to operate 58 flights, bringing more than 10,793 people back to the UK.

Dame Deirdre Hutton, chair of the CAA, said: “Our operation has thus far gone well and I am very pleased with the progress we have made during the first three days. However, this is a huge undertaking and we still have 11 days to go. Everybody at the CAA remains completely focused on this mission.

“Like any other airline, some of our aircraft have experienced delay, due to both technical faults and bad weather, resulting in frustration for some passengers. We’re very sorry and would like to apologise to anyone who has experienced a delay.

“We have also been in contact with more than 2,200 hotel and accommodation providers giving them financial guarantees and ensuring ATOL protected customers can continue their holidays unhindered. We will continue to work with hoteliers should there be any further concerns.

“Over the next 11 days we expect there to be many more challenges and we will continue to work around the clock with our partners to ensure all passengers are both given timely information about their return flight and flown home at no extra cost.”