{"id":29308,"date":"2025-04-24T16:52:50","date_gmt":"2025-04-24T15:52:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zestcarrental.com\/blog\/?p=29308"},"modified":"2025-04-25T09:05:54","modified_gmt":"2025-04-25T08:05:54","slug":"flight-delays-across-europe-predicted","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zestcarrental.com\/blog\/flight-delays-across-europe-predicted\/","title":{"rendered":"Flight delays across Europe predicted"},"content":{"rendered":"

The travel industry is gearing up for a busier-than-usual summer which could mean longer queues, limited availability, and most importantly, a higher chance of flight delays.<\/p>\n

What you need to know<\/h3>\n

Since the pandemic, Europe’s travel industry has seen a rebound marked by fluctuations, making it challenging for experts to accurately predict. This unpredictability has made it harder for airlines and air traffic control (ATC) to adapt, leaving them vulnerable to the same kinds of operational strains that the industry faced last summer.<\/p>\n

From adverse weather to industrial action, there are a handful of factors that alter an airline’s usual schedule, but above all, much of the recent issue lies with ATC staffing.<\/p>\n

The number of air traffic controllers dropped substantially during the height of COVID-19, and this paired with the 2-3 years of rigorous training that controllers need in order to fill the positions, means that ATC are still working to catch up. The lack of staff has been a key contributor to not just the delay of a country’s inbound and outbound flights, but also to the flights with paths through these territories.<\/p>\n

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Which areas are facing the worst delays?<\/h3>\n

Flight delays are predicted throughout all of Europe, but the leading locations we’re seeing for ATC delays are Germany, Hungary, Croatia, and France. This isn’t to say that you should avoid these destinations though, we still actively encourage you to explore the culture and the charms that these countries have to offer – just be sure to factor in the possibility of delays when making your travel plans!<\/p>\n

What should I do if my flight is affected?<\/h3>\n

As a passenger, you’ll have rights based around the length of the delay and distance of the planned journey. It’s important to know what you are entitled to whilst you wait or if you need to make alternative plans. You can find out more information on the UK Government website here: Air passenger travel guide – GOV.UK<\/a> – keep in mind that in regards to cancellations, ATC decisions fall under ‘extraordinary circumstances’ so you may not be entitled to compensation.<\/p>\n

Let us help<\/h3>\n

Wherever you choose to travel this summer, if your flights get delayed or cancelled Zest are always on hand to help! Don\u2019t let travel hiccups ruin the start of your holiday. It’s important you let us know about any schedule changes to avoid your booking being cancelled if you don’t show up on time. We\u2019ll assist in adjusting your booking (and if needed, help you find a new rental car) to make things as stress-free as possible.<\/p>\n

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