Strikes loom again

Flight disruption across Europe is expected this week with French air traffic controllers (SNCTA) scheduled to begin five days of strikes from this morning (Monday 6 March) until next Friday evening.

The A4E (Arlines for Europe) lobby group said yesterday the dispute could result in more than 1,000 flight cancellations and "severe delays", with airlines having to reduce capacity by 25% during the week.

The action will affect ATC coverage across southern and western French airspace, affecting many flights departing from the UK for destinations in Spain and Portugal and possibly further afield.

Carriers have been putting contingency plans in place and apologising to passengers in advance while making the point that any disruption is beyond their control.

EasyJet said: "Like all airlines, our flights to and from French airports, as well as those flying in French airspace, might be affected. EasyJet will advise affected customers of any flight changes via e-mail and SMS."

British Airways said yesterday it was still assessing the situation with French authorities, adding: “Given that the situation could change at very short notice, we will aim to publish any revisions to our schedule the day before each strike day.”

Elsewhere, ITB Berlin, which begins on Wednesday (8 March), has put together measures to minimise the effects of threatened strikes by ground crew at Berlin’s airports during the event. The show website, along with Facebook and Twitter, will carry live updates with a link to the latest information. 

www.sncta.fr

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