Tips to Prepare for Flight Delays or Cancellations Due to Strikes

Greetings, fellow travellers!

You may be familiar with the term’ Air Traffic Strikes,’ as it has been recently circulating through multiple news and social media outlets.

A multitude of international airlines, including Ryanair, easyJet, and many more, have been affected by the strike of air traffic controllers, which has resulted in hundreds of flight cancellations, upsetting and stressing numerous passengers worldwide.

What exactly is an Air Traffic Strike, you may ask?

An air traffic strike is a strike organised by air traffic controllers for a plethora of reasons, such as understaffing, pay cuts, work conditions, and management issues. Many controllers have spoken up against the pressures and stresses staff shortages have caused, as well as burnout and safety concerns.

How does this affect me?

Whilst this is a topic we can often overlook when planning an exciting getaway, Air Traffic Control Strikes are a prevalent topic within the travel industry. Their strikes can lead to mass cancellations, delays and even, in some extreme cases, airport closures, which is why we’re here to provide clear, practical guidance for navigating these disruptions should you encounter them.

How to be prepared:

Consistently check news outlets and informational travel sources, as well as utilising government websites for advisories and or warnings against upcoming strike action; more often than not, airlines and airports will often issue statements a few days in advance, allowing you time to be prepared when tackling any challenges facing the strikes.

A handy tip would be to enable push notifications on social media platforms of your airline and airport close to your trip, and be the first to be informed of any major changes or announcements. If you don’t use social media, download your airline’s mobile app for instant updates, and look to confirm your flight 24 hours in advance – this is usually a good sign of being free from any strikes, as strikes are usually planned!

Book tickets with flexible cancellation and change policies. Use airlines that include free rebooking during strike periods; not all airlines offer this benefit.

It might be handy to look at booking flights with flexible cancellation/changes. It is a wise idea to keep an eye out for airlines that include free rebooking during strike periods – not all airlines offer this benefit! Going hand-in-hand with this, make sure to have travel insurance that covers strike-related disruptions.

In the case of possible delays at the airport due to any air traffic strikes, pack essentials in your carry-on such as chargers, portable chargers, snacks and extra toiletries.

In the event that your flight has been cancelled, alternative flights may be available, so it is important to act fast and look into rebooking straight away, as seats may be taken due to other people being in the same boat.

Finally, understand your rights; depending on where on the globe you are, you may be entitled to compensation, meals, hotel refunds and/or alternative flights! Here at Travelhouseuk we pride ourselves on our customer service, so feel free to get in contact with one of our professional travel advisors for any queries you may have about any upcoming flights that you have booked with us.

Safe travels!