Southwest Airlines has apologised for the mass disruptions to its flight network after thousands of flights were cancelled this week

The US-based airline issued an apology statement on behalf of its CEO Gary Kelly to its social media channels.

On the company’s Twitter, Kelly apologised for Southwest’s disastrous meltdown over Columbus Day weekend that separated families and ruined vacations.

The CEO addressed the company’s employees, emphasising his appreciation for their hard work during the breakdown, as well as the customers, who he said didn’t deserve what happened.

The statement reading: “This is not the experience our customers deserve”

The airline said bad weather and air traffic control issues in Florida kicked off the problems, which snowballed due to its own staffing shortfall.

Orlando is one of Southwest Airlines’ largest crew bases, and its seven-hour closure on Friday prevented aircraft, pilots, and flight attendants from moving through the system.

The airline’s CEO explained that because of this, flight crews could not get to their pre-planned positions.