1. Flight Disruptions
  2. Major Flight Disruptions Leave Thousands Stranded Across Multiple European Airports

Major Flight Disruptions Leave Thousands Stranded Across Multiple European Airports

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Checked by Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt

Last updated on 22 December 2025

1,795

Affected flights

4

Affected airports

4

Affected airlines

What Happened

Thousands of travellers encountered disruptions as numerous airlines including Ryanair, British, Pegasus, and SAS saw 61 flight cancellations and 1,734 delays across airports like Barcelona, Milan, Oslo, and Skopje. These operational challenges have impacted major European hubs, stranding passengers and affecting international travel. The disruption has significant implications for flight schedules and passenger plans throughout the region.

Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.

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Flight Disruption Details

Thousands of passengers travelling today have experienced extensive travel disruptions affecting several prominent European airlines. The carriers Ryanair, British, Pegasus, SAS, and others collectively faced 61 flight cancellations and 1,734 delays. The disruption has been particularly pronounced at key airports, with Barcelona, Milan, Oslo, and Skopje among the primary locations impacted.

The delays and cancellations spanned major countries including Spain, Italy, Norway, and Macedonia. The breadth of impact has caused chaos and significant waiting times for travelers, affecting both domestic and international routes. With multiple airlines involved, the scale of disruption is considerable, extending across several hubs in Southern and Northern Europe.

There is no clear indication of a single triggering event, such as weather or industrial action, underscoring the complex nature of airline operations during peak travel periods. Passengers affected are should remain in close contact with their airline, and read up on their rights under EC 261 for delays and cancellations.

Know your rights

These are your air passenger rights

When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.

Up to €600 compensation

Passengers whose flights were canceled or delayed over 3 hours may be entitled to financial compensation ranging from €250 to €600 per person. Check your flight.

Rerouting or refund

If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.

Care and assistance

Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.

Accommodation

If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.

Communication

Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour.

This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to times you must present yourself for check-in and boarding.

Quick facts

Summary

Disruption

Delays and Cancellations

Cause

Other

Status

Current disruption

Compensation

May qualify for compensation

Flights affected

1795

Airlines affected

Ryanair, British, Pegasus, SAS

Airports affected

Barcelona, Milan, Oslo, Skopje

Checked by

Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt

Date updated

22 December 2025

What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled

If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:

Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.

Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.

Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.

Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.

Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.

Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.

If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.

Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.

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