easyJet will launch three ‘rescue flights’ tomorrow, as the impact of a strike by French air traffic controllers continues to be felt.

The low-cost airline cancelled 248 flights yesterday and a further 331 today, with 78 of those to and from the UK.

“easyJet recognises that there a number of passengers across the network who have been affected by these cancellations and still require flights as soon as possible,” explained a statement.

“We are operating five rescue flights tomorrow, prioritising the repatriation of three groups of school children that we have recognised in Paris Charles de Gaulle, London Gatwick and Marrakech.

“These will operate tomorrow from Luton to Paris Charles de Gaulle, Charles de Gaulle to Barcelona, Barcelona to Luton, London Gatwick to Madrid and Marrakech to London Gatwick.

“Also from tomorrow onwards we will look at the potential of upgrading aircraft types on routes that have been most affected to offer more seats for passengers in those destinations.”

easyJet said flights were only being cancelled as a last resort, while free of charge transfers onto alternative flights were being offers.

The UK carrier is also providing hotel accommodation should it be required by passengers.

Yesterday easyJet booked 3,103 rooms accommodating 6,066 customers.