Airlines flying from Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3 have been asked to cancel flights today as the airport grapples with a huge backlog of luggage.

On Friday, what was described as an ‘enormous luggage carpet’ was seen outside Heathrow after problems with the baggage system at Terminal 2.

The problem exacerbated over the weekend, with arrivals reporting long waits for their luggage and large crowds building at baggage reclaim.

Departing passengers have reported their luggage has not arrived at their destination.

The Independent says Heathrow has asked airlines to cancel 10% of schedules, affecting 15,000 passengers on 90 flights.

Virgin Atlantic has cancelled at least three transatlantic flights, British Airways has cancelled ‘a small number’ including three to Toulouse and two to Marseille.

BA said it is in contact with affected customers.

Aegean, Aer Lingus, Air India, KLM and Swiss are among many other airlines that have cancelled services.

The Independent reports some of the luggage may be sent by truck to Europe to be distributed to passengers.

Heathrow apologised for the disruption over the weekend and said: “The technical issues affecting baggage systems have led to us making the decision to request airlines operating in Terminals 2 and 3 to consolidate their schedules on Monday 20 June.

“This will enable us to minimise ongoing impact and we ask that all passengers check with their airlines for the latest information.”