Major European Hubs Hit by Hundreds of Delays as Multiple Airlines Face Travel Turmoil
Travelers across London's Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Frankfurt airports encountered extensive travel disruptions as British Airways, Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, and others reported over 1,493 delayed flights and 21 cancellations. The ripple effect leaves hundreds of passengers facing uncertainty and possible further complications as disruptions cascade across several of Europe's busiest air transport hubs.
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Major European airports experienced a severe travel crisis as hundreds of flights operated by leading airlines including British Airways, Air France, KLM, and Lufthansa were significantly delayed or canceled. The incident impacted passengers at London Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Frankfurt—four of Europe’s busiest international airports.
A total of 1,493 flights were reported delayed and 21 flights canceled across these locations, affecting routine schedules and stranding passengers. The disruption left hundreds of travelers in a state of limbo, seeking updates and assistance as airlines and airports attempted to manage the chaos caused by the widespread operational difficulties. Both short-haul and long-haul routes faced interruptions, intensifying the challenge for passengers attempting to rebook or claim their rights under air travel regulations.
This large-scale disruption underscores the vulnerability of interconnected air transport systems, especially during peak travel periods. The affected airlines are working to minimize further inconvenience, but the continued impact remains significant, with normal operations expected to resume only after resolution of the issue.
Travelers are advised to monitor communications from their airlines and to be aware of their passenger rights under the relevant protections, as eligibility for compensation may apply based on the specific circumstances of each delayed or canceled flight.
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
Disruption:
Delays and Cancellations
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Could be eligible for €250 - €600 compensation
Flights affected:
1514
Status:
Current disruption
Airlines affected:
British Airways, Air France, KLM, Lufthansa
Airports affected:
London Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam Schiphol, Frankfurt
Checked by:
Matteo Floris
Date updated:
December 29, 2025