EasyJet Ryanair, the busiest airline in Europe, has cancelled 170 flights. easyJet has dropped 274 more. Both airlines are reacting to a new strike by French air traffic controllers. Flights going to and from France will be affected. Flights that just pass over French airspace will also face problems. This includes popular routes between the UK, Spain, Ireland, and Greece.
The strike begins Friday. It is about staff shortages and old equipment. French officials have told airlines to cut flights at Paris airports by up to 40%. IAG, which owns British Airways, says it’s trying to reduce problems. They plan to use larger planes to carry more people.
The strike will likely cause delays and more Ryanair cancellations all over Europe. France is in the center of the continent. Planes flying across Europe often rely on French airspace. Michael O’Leary, CEO of EasyJet Ryanair, called the strike “recreational.” He says the EU needs to step in. He believes strikes in one country should not mess up flights for others.
“Again, European families are stuck because of a strike in France,” O’Leary said. “It’s unfair that flights only passing through French skies are delayed or cancelled. These people aren’t even going to France.”
EasyJet Ryanair wants two things. First, enough workers should be on duty each morning to keep things running. Second, flights that just fly over should not be stopped during strikes. The airline says these changes could fix 90% of the delays.
“This shows why ATC reform is so badly needed,” O’Leary added. “People in Europe deserve air travel they can count on, especially during holidays.” Airlines and travel groups are tired of the frequent strikes in France’s air traffic system. These strikes are happening more often now. They usually affect travelers in many countries. The biggest delays are expected on Friday and Saturday. Passengers should check their flight status before heading to the airport. If flights are cancelled, people can rebook or ask for a refund. More strikes could happen later this summer. That’s putting pressure on the EU to step in and protect air routes across Europe.