Holidaymakers heading to France or Portugal later this week may be faced with travel chaos as industrial action threatens to disrupt both inbound and outbound flights.
Budget airline easyJet has already urged passengers who are travelling to the two countries to check the status of their flights.
Pilots with the airline in France announced planned action on August 15, 17 and 19. A walkout is also planned for ground handling staff in Faro and Oporto on August 15 and 17.
easyJet confirmed that discussions with the French pilots’ union SNPL are ongoing, as the airline attempts to address a staff dispute over pay.
According to easyJet, French strikes would only impact French-based crews, and as a result not all flights will be affected.
The airline also confirmed that it will take necessary measures “if an agreement is not sought” in which case “operational plans will be drawn up”. It went on to say that it hopes any disruption in Portugal will be limited.
“The company regrets that some of its pilots have chosen to move ahead with an industrial action rather than coming back to the negotiations table, particularly in this busy period for holidaymakers,” said an easyJet spokeswoman.
“The Management remains open to discussion and calls the SNPL union representatives to resume negotiations.”
Passengers due to fly to Portugal or France with easyJet this week have been advised to check for an update on the airline’s website.
If you are unsure what to do if your flights are delayed or cancelled, the European Commission has launched a handy travel app to help travellers whose journeys are disrupted.
The Your Passenger Rights At Hand app is designed to give travellers information on their rights when flying, as well as providing contact details and information on how to make a complaint.
(Images: easyJet, ReservasdeCoaches, European Commission)
