Summer flight disruptions forewarned by Ryanair: UK ranks fifth in Europe for delays, prospects hint at further deterioration.
Heads Up, Jetsetters!
Get ready for potential chaos in the skies this summer, as warned by Ryanair's CEO. With a whopping 1,642 delays affecting nearly 300,000 Brits, the UK is fifth on Ryanair's list of nations hit hardest by air traffic control (ATC) issues.
On their flights between January 1 and May 26, 2025, nearly one-third of a million British passengers were marooned in delays. Ryanair blames the European Commission and European governments, stating they've failed to address the shoddy ATC services, and flight delays are only going to worsen in the summer.
Michael O'Leary, the airline's fearless leader, has predicted "record ATC flight delays" this summer if the staff shortages and ATC problems aren't remedied.
Top Affected Countries:
The "League of Delays" revealed that France and Spain have been the most impacted so far, with 15,634 and 11,576 flights delayed respectively. This mismanagement, according to Ryanair, "must not be allowed to preside over another year."
Other countries like Germany, Portugal, and Italy are also dealing with thousands of flight delays.
Time for Action:
Fed up with the constant ATC delays? Ryanair is encouraging passengers to visit their website — "Air Traffic Control Ruined Your Flight" — to demand action from their national Transport Ministers. Ryanair even provides an email template to help you communicate your discontent directly to the perpetrators.
ATC delays were rampant in 2024 despite five percent fewer flights in Europe than pre-Covid. As ATC delays surged, ATC fees to airlines and passengers soared, increasing by double the rate of inflation. It's about time for change, Ryanair claims.
Facing the Heat:
Mr. O'Leary has vowed to hold EU Transport Ministers accountable for the repeated and unnecessary flight delays. He argues that proper staffing to manage traffic and addressing overflights during national ATC strikes would drastically reduce the EU's ATC delays.
However, he laments that "Transport Ministers won't take any action."
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing situation. And remember, as a traveler, your voice matters. Demand better from the airlines and governments. Let's work together for smoother skies!
Sources:
- "Ryanair reveals Europe's worst air traffic control centers for delays." The Sun. May 27, 2025.
- "Ryanair Warns of Record Flight Delays This Summer." Airline Ratings. June 3, 2025.
- "UK Air Traffic Control Continues to Struggle." BBC News. June 5, 2025.
- "Militant Union Actions Compound UK Air Traffic Control Problems." Sky News. June 10, 2025.
- "ACL Taking Action to Address European Air Traffic Control Issues." Airline Consumer Lifestyle. June 15, 2025.
- Given the escalating ATC issues and predicted "record ATC flight delays" this summer, it's advisable for frequent travelers to carefully plan their trips, considering such possibilities in their lifestyle and making alternate arrangements if necessary.
- Amidst the chaos in the skies, sports enthusiasts planning international tournaments or events should stay updated on the ATC issues across Europe, particularly in the top affected countries like France, Spain, Germany, Portugal, and Italy, to ensure smooth travel and minimal disturbances to their events.
