A suspect package sparked a security alert and delays at Heathrow Airport's Terminal Four. More than 50 flights were cancelled. The building reopened after about five hours.

The departure lounge was evacuated so passengers could be searched for a second time. Officials handed out rain protectors and bottles of water.

Despite the inconvenience, passengers said they accepted security needed to be a priority. Lines built up at payphones and internet terminals as alternative plans were made.

Nathan Murby said there was a lack of information. He rebooked his cancelled BA flight but, unable to find a hotel, was facing a night in the terminal with his wife and baby son.

Hans Bucher - evacuated from the transit lounge en route to Denver, Colorado - was hoping to be put on an alternative flight. He said BA had not opened enough counters.

Madmur Yadav (centre) said his party opted to take a non-direct flight after his BA journey to Delhi was cancelled. He said: "Customer service gave us a toll-free number to call."

Birad Shelat arrived from Mumbai, India, with his family - after a five-hour wait in their plane on the tarmac. "We were given refreshments and an update every half an hour," he said.