European Air Travel: Air traffic controllers may strike this summer, delaying thousands of European flights. Vacationers already struggling with high prices and heat are suffering more from the disruptions.
After last summer’s canceled flights and lost luggage, many hoped for a return to pre-pandemic normalcy as airlines and airports increased staffing. However, strikes are becoming an aviation industry issue.
Eurocontrol’s civil servant trade union, which manages European airspace, is a major threat. Aviation insiders are monitoring Eurocontrol’s six-month strike warning from the Union Syndicale Bruxelles.
Numerous strikes have disrupted travel in France, Belgium, Spain, and other popular tourist destinations this summer.
High inflation makes travel vulnerable to strikes. Unions are demanding higher wages as prices rise.
Europe faces air traffic control congestion. EasyJet canceled 1,700 flights from London Gatwick in July and September due to ATC issues.
During the Barcelona Airports Council International General Assembly, Eurocontrol director-general Raúl Medina predicted a difficult summer. Due to Russia’s war in Ukraine, military activity in Europe has reduced available airspace by up to 20%, complicating the situation with an estimated 33,000 flights per day during peak travel weeks and possible spikes on Fridays.
The International Air Transport Association called European and US air traffic control “disappointing.” Due to a lack of ATC resources, particularly in Germany and France, Director General Willie Walsh said European carriers face a “challenging” ATC environment.
Aviation experts advise passengers to use various strategies to minimize strike impacts on travel plans. Travelers should know that their contract is with the airline, so they should contact them first during strikes involving airports and ground crews.
Passengers should monitor news and airline notifications, especially in unfamiliar destinations, for strike announcements. Knowing the airline’s strike and rebooking policy helps too.
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European travelers need travel insurance. However, travelers should carefully check the policy’s strike coverage.
Due to the complexity of the situation, some passengers may seek help from travel agents or advisors who specialize in strikes. Due to frequent travel disruptions, more travelers are consulting these experts.
Know passenger rights too. EU 261 (Regulation (EC) No 261/2004) governs passenger assistance and compensation (up to 250-600 euros per person) for delayed or canceled flights that take off or land in the EU or are operated by EU-licensed airlines.
Strikes should not deter passengers from seeking compensation.
Staying informed, planning ahead, and asserting passenger rights are key to smoother European air travel during a summer of strikes and congestion.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is the best website to book flights in Europe?
FlyingKayak is your go-to destination for finding the best flight options to and within Europe. Meanwhile, Google Flights offers seamless search capabilities and price alerts. If you’re on the hunt for affordable flights within Europe, Skyscanner is the ultimate search engine to use. Expedia and CheapoAir are also alternative options to consider when searching for flights to Europe.
What is Europe’s #1 airline?
In 2022, Lufthansa dominated the European airline market, flying a record-breaking 101.8 million passengers. Turkish Airlines followed closely behind, carrying an impressive 71.8 million travelers.
Which airport in Europe is cheapest to fly into?
To save money on your European vacation, consider flying into one of these budget-friendly airports: Dublin Airport (DUB) in Ireland, RomeFiumicino International Airport (FCO) in Italy, Barcelona El-Prat Airport (BCN) in Spain, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in the Netherlands, and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in France.
How far in advance should I book flights within Europe?
Book your travel tickets at least two to six months ahead to ensure availability, especially during busy times like holidays. It’s also a good idea to plan even further ahead if you’re traveling during peak periods. Train tickets typically become available for purchase three to six months before your travel date, and it’s best to secure them early to avoid price increases as the departure date gets closer.