Ninety-nine Bermuda-bound passengers were last night stranded in London after a technical problem with the airplane forced the pilot to perform a U-turn above the Atlantic.

As a knock-on effect, last night's British Airways flight from Bermuda to Gatwick Airport was also cancelled.

According to one passenger, two hours into the UK-Bermuda flight, the plane's captain announced it would have to return to London.

Passengers who had hoped to leave Bermuda for London last night will either be squeezed on today's Bermuda-Gatwick flight or be rerouted through New York.

"We apologise to passengers," said BA spokeswoman Sallie Singleton last night.

"The aircraft returned to Gatwick due to a minor technical problem. The decision was taken purely as a precaution. The aircraft landed safely and without further incident. At no time was the safety of the passengers under threat."

It is unlikely inconvenienced passengers will be eligible for compensation because action was taken as a safety precaution.

Bermuda residents can apply to BA's customer relations on the Island to find out whether they would be applicable. Visit ba.com for more information.