STANSTED Airport operator BAA has said it will respect the decisions taken by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) over the re-opening of UK controlled airspace.

STANSTED Airport operator BAA has said it will "respect" the decisions taken by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) over the re-opening of UK controlled airspace.

Managing director at the Essex hub, David Johnston, said: "Any decision to re-open airspace around the UK will be taken by the CAA. We will respect those decisions.

"Across Stansted, we share the disappointment felt by passengers and have worked hard in recent days to ensure that when airlines are ready to get people moving, we will be ready.

"When the airport opens, it is imperative passengers do not travel to the airport unless they have a confirmed flight booking, and have checked the status of their flight with their airline. In most cases the quickest and easiest way to do this will be via the airline website.

"Not all flights will operate during any temporary opening, and the situation is likely to change at short notice.

"We appreciate the patience shown by the travelling public through these unprecedented times and look forward to welcoming them back to our airport.