Flights to France and Spain are likely to be hit by lengthy delays on Friday (September 16) as French air traffic controllers stage a walkout. There are also likely to be cancellations, with Ryanair and easyJet flights likely to be badly affected.
The French government has asked airlines to slash flights to and from the country in half on Friday, so that remaining flights can be accommodated. Meanwhile, flights to Spain will be subject to lengthy delays as they will have to avoid French airspace.
September is a busy time for flights to France and Spain, with many people taking advantage of lower prices after the schools return. On average, around 8,800 flights a day travel through French airspace.
Read more: Most child-friendly airlines including easyJet, TUI and Ryanair
The Syndicat National des Contrôleurs du Trafic Aérien (SNCTA) union said action was necessary as its members grappled with rising prices. More industrial action by the union is planned for September 28 and 30.
What do the airlines say?
The easyJet website has the following information: “Like all airlines operating to/from French airports, easyJet expects some disruptions to its flying programme and has been requested by the DGAC – French CAA – to proceed to cancellations.
“If your flight is cancelled, we will notify you by SMS and email, and you will be given the option to change your flight for free, receive a voucher or a refund. If you are due to travel to or from France on September 16, please check the status of your flight on Flight Tracker, which is available online or through the easyJet app.”
Ryanair, meanwhile, advises people to check online for the latest news. Its general advice is: “Occasionally, due to unforeseen circumstances, we may have to change flight timings before scheduled departure. If this happens, we will notify you of the schedule change via e-mail. ”
Other flight disruption
Passengers are also being advised their plans could also be disrupted during the period of national mourning for the Queen. Officials at Heathrow Airport said schedules may be subject to change while the nation observes the National Moment of Reflection with a one-minute silence at 8pm on September 18 and the broadcast of Queen Elizabeth's funeral on screens at the airport on Monday.
Heathrow said: "Further changes to the airport operation will be communicated in full over the coming days.”
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