Greek Air Traffic Controllers Announce Strike Causing Flight Cancellations
A major disruption is looming at Greek airports as almost all flights are expected to be cancelled due to an impending strike by air traffic controllers. Holidaymakers planning trips in and out of Greece have been cautioned to brace themselves for severe delays and cancellations.
The Greek Air Traffic Controllers Association (EEEKE) has declared a 24-hour strike as part of the Civil Servants Federation (ADEDY) industrial action set for Wednesday, April 9, 2025. The strike is in pursuit of demands for a real wage increase, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by public sector workers in Greece.
The strike, commencing at 12.01am on Wednesday, April 9 and concluding at midnight, will only permit the operation of select flights deemed essential for societal needs. These include flights over Athens, transportation of heads of state and prime ministers, Hellenic Air Force missions, emergencies, hospital transfers, humanitarian aid, and search and rescue operations.
The announcement comes at a crucial time for the Greek tourism sector, with the UK representing the second-largest inbound tourist market in 2023, accounting for approximately 4.6 million arrivals. The strike is expected to impact the travel plans of numerous British tourists, especially as it coincides with the commencement of the Easter holiday season.
Ivaylo Danailov, the CEO of SkyRefund, a company specializing in airline compensation, emphasised the complexities surrounding compensation during instances of strikes. He noted that airlines are generally exempt from paying delay compensations in cases of extraordinary circumstances beyond their control, such as air traffic control restrictions resulting from industrial actions.
Despite the exemption from compensation, passenger rights to care and assistance remain intact under EU regulations. However, the lack of transparency regarding the specific reasons behind a strike can pose challenges for affected travellers seeking compensation. Danailov recommended evaluating each claim on an individual basis to ascertain the impact of the strike on flight delays.
Historically, Greek authorities have contested air traffic controller strikes, often seeking legal intervention to declare them illegal. However, the successful execution of the February 28, 2025 strike, resulting in a day-long grounding of all flights, has set a precedent for the upcoming industrial action on April 9. The timing of this strike, coinciding with the influx of UK tourists visiting Greece for the Easter holidays, amplifies the potential disruptions and inconveniences faced by travellers.
As the aviation sector braces for the impending strike, uncertainties linger over the duration and extent of the disruptions that will unfold across Greek airports. Passengers scheduled to travel during this period are advised to stay informed about developments, seek guidance from their airlines, and prepare for possible alterations to their travel plans amidst the challenging circumstances.
The looming strike serves as a stark reminder of the intricate dynamics within the air travel industry and the ripple effects that industrial actions can have on passengers, airlines, and tourism stakeholders. As travellers navigate through the uncertainties caused by flight cancellations and delays, the resilience and adaptability of the aviation sector will be put to the test, underscoring the importance of effective communication and contingency planning during times of crisis.