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Both British Airways and EasyJet have cancelled hundreds of flights this week due to staff sickness related to coronavirus.

And according to a blogpost on Martin Lewis' website moneysavingexpert.com, if you aren't booked onto another flight, you'll be due a refund within seven days.

The website states that according to standard flight cancellation rules, which have now been written into UK law, if your flight is cancelled you are entitled to choose between a full refund or an alternative flight.

Those who have booked a specific return deal with the same airline, who have one leg is cancelled, would expect a refund for both parts.

The rules for UK flights state you're entitled to choose between:

• A refund for the flight that was cancelled, which should be first offered in cash, or
• An alternative flight

MSE says if you need to travel urgently then choose the rebooking option. If the airline is struggling to get you on another of its own flights, it also recommends 'pushing for them to get you a seat on another airline'.

It warns some airlines may urge you to take a voucher rather than a refund, but says but you absolutely entitled to a refund.

How to rebook or get a refund online

British Airways passengers should visit Manage My Booking to find the options available to them. Those who booked through a travel agent or a tour operator will need to contact them directly to discuss their options or request a refund.

EasyJet passengers can request a cash refund, a rebooking or voucher for the full value of their reservation by logging into Manage Bookings. Those who booked through a travel agent or tour operator will need to contact them directly.

Many holidaymakers and travellers have been left fuming over the cancellations, with some taking to Twitter to vent their frustration.

One fumed this week: "EasyJet really just cancelled my flight within less than 24 hours of me flying out."

While another added: "@easyJet flight has been cancelled last minute and I am due to fly out this evening. Shocking service!"

A third wrote: "@British_Airways I'm trying to call about rearranging flights you have cancelled but the phone line is always busy and cuts me off. How should I get this sorted out?"

Addressing the cancellations, EasyJet said: “As a result of the current high rates of Covid infections across Europe, like all businesses, EasyJet is experiencing higher than usual levels of employee sickness."

While British Airways added: "We've apologised to customers who are affected by this and to limit the inconvenience have re-booked them onto earlier or later flights on the same day they were originally due to travel where possible. We're also offering them the opportunity to book onto an alternative flight or request a full refund."

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• British Airways
• Easyjet
• Martin Lewis
• Coronavirus
• Travel Advice
• Holidays

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