Summer for millions of air passengers could become a nightmare – FT explanation

The European Union has warned of possible record delays in European air traffic around the summer of 2025 due to a shortage of air traffic controllers, increased demand for air travel, and the impacts of climate change. In the early months of this year, air traffic volume rose by 5%, and delays also increased. The air traffic management system is operating at the limits of its capacity, and the number of flights has reached a historic high, with around 37,000 flights operating through European skies. According to Eurocontrol, nine countries in Europe are experiencing the biggest delays, particularly due to strikes, especially in France. European officials warn of threats from extreme weather conditions and wildfires that also affect aviation. Additionally, the conflict in Ukraine complicates the situation in airspace. Governments are urged to expedite reforms to reduce delays and ease flight routing. Without urgent measures, the summer of 2025 could become a nightmare for millions of passengers, which could threaten Europe's aviation infrastructure.