Thomson Airways has said it will utilise contingency plans if it cannot go ahead with its Dreamliner launch in May.

All 50 Dreamliners presently in service around the world with airlines are grounded as the authorities in the United States and Japan carry out an investigation following a series of incidents with batteries on board the aircraft.

Thomson confirmed Boeing had not given it a new delivery date for its first 787 Dreamliner.

All deliveries are presently suspended, with more than 800 aircraft on order.

Thomson had planned to use the aircraft on flights to Mexico and Florida.

However, a statement explained: “We appreciate that there are many customers who are looking forward to flying on the Dreamliner but unfortunately these circumstances are out of our control.

“Once we have finalised our contingency plans we will contact customers whose flights may be affected.”