Airlines warn of cancellations as French controllers strike

Football fans flying to Euro 2016 in France have been warned to expect possible disruption, as French air traffic controllers prepare to strike.

Lobby group Airlines for Europe (A4E) - which represents carriers including easyJet and British Airways owner IAG - said more than 100 flights will be cancelled, and countless more delays.

The industrial action will disrupt not only flights going to or from France, but also those flying over French airspace, A4E said, which includes many flights from Britain and Ireland to the continent.

It is the 50th strike by French air traffic controllers since 2009, according to A4E, with spokesman Thomas Reynaert describing it as a “pathetic milestone”.

“Understandably, European passengers and airlines are frustrated as these strikes take place at a very busy time of the year.

“The European Commission and governments must act immediately to protect the rights of millions of European travellers affected by this repeated and disproportionate industrial action,” Reynaert said.

He explained that it is not only holidaymakers whose travel plans have been thrown into jeopardy, but also fans heading to Euro 2016.

Ryanair - another member of A4E - said it has cancelled 44 flights already due to the 24 hour strike.

Airlines for Europe was established in January, and also represents Air France-KLM, Finnair, Jet2, Lufthansa Group, Norwegian and Volotea.