An airline body representing some of Europe’s largest and most influential carriers is demanding that EU leaders set a 21-day advance notice for any air traffic controller strikes.
On March 19, 2026, Airlines for Europe (A4E) set out a series of strategies to address concerns over higher fares and route cutbacks.
Airlines for Europe highlighted the “broken air traffic management system” where industrial action can have far reaching consequences for its members and their customers.
“Fragmented European airspace finds itself closed down due to air traffic controller strikes. A strike in just one member state can shut down arriving and departing flights and also force overflying planes to detour,” said a spokesperson for Airlines for Europe.
They added: “EU leaders must take this concern more seriously.”
Our DG Willie Walsh – a founder of A4E – at their summit. No level playing field, ATC strikes, SAF mandates among challenges facing European air transport. pic.twitter.com/bv0cVvnbbp
— IATA (@IATA) March 19, 2026
The airline body is calling for mandatory arbitration before a strike is even called and leaders to set a 21-day advance notice for any industrial action.
There were also calls to “protect overflights while ensuring local departures and arrivals are not impacted and guarantee a right of redress for airlines”.
The Airlines for Europe member Ryanair has been one of the most vocal critics of air traffic controller strikes.
Previously the airline has launched petitions against air traffic controller strikes and called upon the EU Commission and its president, Ursula von der Leyen, to do more to protect passengers.
“As heads of State and Government meet in Brussels today, we call for immediate corrective action to safeguard competitiveness and connectivity,” said Airlines for Europe.
Additionally, the airline body called for the 2030 eSAF sub-mandate to be postponed until e-SAF is “sufficiently available and affordable, and the regulatory framework is redesigned to support diverse, affordable production pathways”.
Other Airlines for Europe members include IAG, Lufthansa Group, Air France-KLM Group, Finnair and easyJet.