Eurocontrol - the organisation responsible for managing European airspace - has warned of possible strikes that could affect thousands of daily flights.
With workers protesting over pay, working hours, and staffing issues, up to 30 percent of flights during the peak summer period could be disrupted.
Although strikes are positioned to cause an impact when leisure travel is it its peak, they will inevitably impact business travellers flying into Europe too.
In the UK, unions must give 14 days' notice of strike action. However, if you're planning to travel to Europe, the strike action notice varies depending on the country. Countries like France require just 48 hours' need to be given for transport strikes.
And while air traffic control strikes are considered "extraordinary circumstances" they do not necessarily entitle passengers to compensation under European Union regulations.
Therefore, business travellers should take proactive measures to manage disruptions caused by strikes.
#1 Stay informed.
To effectively manage the situation, it's crucial to stay updated on strike actions and related developments. Regularly monitor the news for any updates and changes regarding the strikes.
Airlines and airports typically provide information on their websites regarding potential disruptions. By staying informed, you can be proactive in making necessary arrangements.
#2 Explore alternative booking options & transportation.
If organising business travel in the coming weeks, prioritise direct flights where you can, as these will help lessen the impact of possible delays, as fewer numbers of flights will be disrupted, or need to be rescheduled.
Consider alternative modes of transportation if your flight is cancelled or significantly delayed. Depending on your destination, train services or other forms of transportation may be viable options. Assess the feasibility and availability of alternative routes to reach your intended location.
#3 Explore alternative days.
Perhaps reconsider days of travel over the coming weeks, as the latest information suggests most strikes will take place on Fridays and over weekends. Mondays to Thursdays might be better days for business travellers to fly.
#4 Inform business contacts.
If your travel plans are disrupted, promptly inform your business contacts or event organizers about the situation. Discuss the possibility of rescheduling meetings or making alternative arrangements to minimize any negative impact on your business commitments.
#5 Use travel management companies (TMCs)
Businesses should consider partnering with travel management companies (TMCs), who provide all round traveller support and the latest travel alerts.
One of the main benefits in these circumstances, is that TMCs provide real-time information on global issues, so businesses don't need to be checking multiple online sources to try and find out what is going on. TMCs also pro-actively re-arrange and provide support as soon as they know about any potential disruptions and are available 24/7 if there is an impact at short notice.
#6 Don't forget about travel insurance.
It is advisable to invest in travel insurance that covers trip disruptions and delays. Some travel insurance policies include coverage for strikes and other unforeseen events.
It may be beneficial to investigate the option of adding Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage to your travel insurance plan, as this can cover known events like strikes with set dates.
#7 Rebook accommodations and transportation.
In the event of a flight cancellation or significant delay, it may be necessary to rearrange accommodations, car rentals, and other travel arrangements. Contact your hotel, car rental company, and other service providers to make the required changes to your bookings.
By staying informed, seeking assistance from travel management companies, and considering appropriate travel insurance, you can mitigate the impact of flight cancellations or delays on your business travel.
By Kevin Harrison, Managing Director, Good Travel Management