European travelers faced a wave of cancellations today as Ryanair was forced to axe nearly 100 flights due to ongoing strike action in France. The budget airline blamed the disruptions on French air traffic controllers who are planning to walk out yet again, marking the 84th day of strikes since 2023. The latest industrial action threatens to throw a wrench into the summer travel plans of thousands, particularly those departing from or arriving at Paris Beauvais Airport.
Ryanair expressed frustration with the EU's inaction, arguing that these repeated strikes infringe upon the freedom of movement guaranteed to EU citizens. "It's inexplicable that the EU Commission hasn't taken steps to protect passengers during these French ATC strikes," a Ryanair spokesperson lamented. "Thousands are having their travel plans disrupted at short notice, and frankly, EU passengers are fed up with these unnecessary cancellations."
The airline emphasized that affected customers would be contacted directly and offered options to rebook their flights or receive full refunds. However, the prospect of scrambling for alternative flights or facing delays can significantly dampen the travel experience. Ryanair's criticism targeted not only the striking air traffic controllers but also the European Union for failing to intervene.
The airline contends that other EU countries, like Spain, Italy, and Greece, have implemented measures to safeguard overflights during air traffic control strikes, a solution they believe the EU should adopt. While the full impact of the cancellations unfolds, one thing remains clear: the ongoing dispute between French air traffic control and Ryanair is causing travel headaches for many across Europe.