Easter travel chaos as strikes in popular European countries could disrupt flights

Brits travelling to this are urged to check their flights for potential delays or cancellations as countries across the continent strike.

Key weekend break hotspots are facing (ATC) strikes over the next few weeks which could majorly disrupt travel plans across Europe. , and have confirmed strikes affecting all major airports, as Germany and Belgium warn of potential action too. Saturday will be the worst impacted day with both France and Italy participating in 24 hour nationwide action. A travel expert has raised concerns of this having a knock on effect to all European airspace, with rerouting and congestion expected. Jessie Chambers, Senior Travel Advisor at , has advised customers to stay flexible and informed.

"We're seeing coordinated air traffic control strikes announced in France, Italy, and parts of Spain over the next two weeks, with further possible disruption in Germany and Belgium.

"This is likely to have a ripple effect across much of European airspace - even flights not landing in those countries could be delayed due to rerouting and congestion."

According to recent notices from EU aviation unions, key dates to watch include:

• France: Nationwide ATC strike planned on April 18-19 and April 25, with possible extensions.
• Italy: 24-hour national strike scheduled for April 19, affecting all major airports.
• Spain: Rolling strikes by air traffic controllers in Madrid and Barcelona from April 20-30.
• Germany & Belgium: Industrial action under discussion, no confirmed dates yet but disruptions are possible with short notice.

The travel expert advised Brits to have a backup plan and to keep an eye on official updates, especially for those with trips planned to France, Italy or Spain.

"Our advice to travellers is simple: double check your flight status before heading to the airport, allow extra time for connections, and consider travel insurance with disruption cover if you haven't already," Ms Chambers said.

"These disruptions can be frustrating, but they don't have to derail your entire trip.

"A few simple steps can make all the difference: download your airline's app for real-time alerts, avoid tight layovers where possible, and always pack essentials in your carry-on in case of long delays."