Major disruption is expected across large European cities, exceeding over 27 cancellations and 50 delays across three carriers, British Airways, Iberia and Vueling. They have cancelled and delayed flights in their respective hub airports, including London Heathrow, Barcelona El Prat and Madrid Barajas.
What is causing this?
Whilst British Airways has stranded thousands across the continent due to technical difficulties and crew shortages, the respective Spanish carriers have been impacted by air traffic control delays and aircraft requiring unscheduled maintenance. Thick fog and snowy conditions have also been reported in Northern Europe, which has also added to the disruption.
Rome Leonardo da Vinci Airport is also experiencing disruption due to heavy rotation on routes between Italy and Spain with Iberia and Vueling.
Airports across the world are expected to experience knock-on effects from this disruption, such as Sydney Kingsford Smith and Singapore Changi, due to technical difficulties in Europe, causing long-haul flights to be affected.
What is being done to clear the backlog?
Passengers are being asked to check airport boards and airline websites for real-time updates on delays and changes. Those who were previously booked on cancelled flights are experiencing frustration with airlines trying to rebook them onto later flights.
What do you think about this disruption? Should the airlines be doing more to ensure punctuality over the festive period? Share your thoughts at TravelRadar.
