A MASSIVE earthquake that hit Japan on Friday morning has caused Tokyo-bound flights to be grounded from UK airports, but reports suggest that Stansted Airport is so far unaffected.

A MASSIVE earthquake that hit Japan on Friday morning has caused Tokyo-bound flights to be grounded from UK airports, but reports suggest that Stansted Airport is so far unaffected.

The Essex hub rarely deals with flights to and from the Far East, as only Air Asia X flies to Kuala Lumpur on a regular basis, but on some occasions cargo companies from Japan do fly in and out.

An airport spokesman said: “Occasionally we have the odd cargo flight, especially around [Formula One] Grand Prix time, but there’s nothing scheduled.

“Japan airlines, BA and Virgin fly direct from Heathrow.”

Stansted is the sister airport to Heathrow as both are owned by BAA.

The Foreign Office has urged UK nationals in Japan to make contact with the British Embassy in Tokyo on +(81) 3 5211 1100 or the Consulate-General in Osaka on +(81) 6 6120 5600.

Advice for those in Japan is to check immediate surroundings for fire, gas leaks, broken glass and other hazards, and open doors and windows to avoid being locked in if there are after-shocks.

• DO you know anyone involved in the Japanese earthquake? Let us know on 01799 512882 or at editor@saffronwalden-reporter.co.uk