Ryanair Responds to Cancellations Due to Belgian Air Traffic Controllers' Strike
Ryanair issues statement after 100 flights cancelled on short notice

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Ryanair faced significant disruptions on June 2, 2023, as over 100 flights were cancelled due to an 'illegal wildcat' strike by Belgian air traffic controllers, affecting nearly 20,000 passengers. The airline criticized the lack of notice given for the strike and called for better communication in the future.
- 01Ryanair cancelled over 100 flights to/from Charleroi and Zaventem Airports due to a strike by Belgian air traffic controllers.
- 02The strike left nearly 20,000 passengers stranded and disrupted travel plans.
- 03Ryanair's CEO Michael O'Leary emphasized the need for at least 24 hours' notice for any strike action to allow airlines to adjust schedules.
- 04The airline condemned the strike as 'illegal' and unacceptable, highlighting the financial impact on airlines that pay for air traffic control services.
- 05A separate general strike in Portugal on June 3 could further affect Ryanair operations and other airlines, with around 500 flights at risk.
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Ryanair has publicly condemned the 'illegal wildcat' strike by Belgian air traffic controllers that led to the cancellation of over 100 flights on June 2, 2023. This sudden strike disrupted travel for nearly 20,000 passengers flying to and from Charleroi and Zaventem Airports. In a statement, Ryanair criticized the lack of notice from the controllers, arguing that such actions should come with at least 24 hours' warning to allow airlines to reorganize their schedules and minimize passenger inconvenience. CEO Michael O'Leary stated that while the right to strike is respected, the absence of prior notification is unacceptable, particularly for families traveling during the holiday season. Additionally, Ryanair travelers may face further disruptions due to a general strike in Portugal scheduled for June 3, which could impact around 500 flights from various airlines. Despite this, Ryanair has assured that it will operate as normal on that day.
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The flight cancellations have left thousands of travelers stranded and disrupted holiday plans, particularly affecting families.
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