Published on
November 29, 2025
Drone alerts are multiplying across Europe, adding to the growing chaos at major airports. Recently, a major airport was forced to shut down again due to drone activity, further exacerbating the travel disruptions. Passengers are enduring 232 cancellations and 3,130 delays, with Air France, easyJet, Ryanair, KLM, Iberia, and SAS all struggling to maintain normal operations. The disruption has been particularly severe in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, affecting major cities like London, Paris, Frankfurt, Barcelona, Milan, and Athens.
Travelers are facing immense frustration as flight schedules are thrown into disarray by both weather conditions and security concerns, including the growing threat of drones. Passengers are urged to stay informed and check for real-time updates as the situation continues to evolve.
Total Cancellations and Delays Across Europe
In total, 232 cancellations and 3,130 delays have been reported at major European airports. These disruptions are impacting both short-haul and long-haul flights, with various airlines and airports experiencing severe delays and service interruptions. Passengers should expect ongoing challenges as airlines work to manage their flight schedules and recover from the backlog caused by these disruptions.
Affected Airports, Cities, and CountriesUnited KingdomLondon Heathrow (LHR), London Stansted (STN), London City (LCY)These airports have seen significant flight delays and cancellations, particularly impacting travelers flying out of the UK capital.FranceCharles de Gaulle (Paris, CDG), Paris Orly (ORY)Both major Paris airports are facing flight delays and cancellations, leaving passengers stranded and struggling to rebook.GermanyFrankfurt International (FRA), Berlin Brandenburg (BER), Zurich (ZRH)German airports are no strangers to disruptions, with several flights delayed and canceled, including those in the popular Frankfurt hub.SpainAdolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (MAD), Barcelona International (BCN), Naples International (NAP)Spain’s busiest airports are also affected, with delays mainly due to operational reasons, as well as additional cancellations from airlines like Iberia.ItalyLeonardo da Vinci International (Rome, FCO), Malpensa International (Milan, MXP)Airports in Italy, especially Rome and Milan, are experiencing serious delays and cancellations, affecting thousands of passengers.ScandinaviaCopenhagen (CPH), Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL), Oslo Gardermoen (OSL)Scandinavian travelers are facing their own set of delays and cancellations, particularly at Copenhagen and Oslo.Other Affected CitiesBrussels (BRU), Budapest (BUD), Bucharest (OTP), Athens (ATH), Malaga (AGP), and Brussels South Charleroi (CRL) also report disruptions.Airlines Affected by Disruptions
The most notable airlines affected by these travel disruptions include some of Europe’s biggest carriers:
Air France has reported 41 cancellations and 173 delays, affecting passengers flying out of major French hubs like Paris.easyJet is facing significant delays, with 277 reported, alongside 12 cancellations.Ryanair, one of Europe’s largest budget airlines, is experiencing severe disruptions with 311 delays and 11 cancellations.KLM, British Airways, and Lufthansa are also contributing to the challenges, with hundreds of flights delayed and some canceled altogether.
Other airlines such as Vueling Airlines, SAS, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Brussels Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic are similarly experiencing delays and cancellations.
What Affected Passengers Can Do Now
For passengers affected by these disruptions, there are a few important steps to take:
Stay Informed
Travelers should regularly check their flight status through their airline’s website or mobile app for real-time updates. Most airlines will also send notifications regarding cancellations or delays via email or SMS.
Rebook Your Flight
If your flight is canceled, it’s crucial to rebook as soon as possible. Many airlines offer flexible rebooking options, but these can be limited during busy travel periods. Consider calling customer service or visiting your airline’s desk at the airport to get assistance.
Check for Compensation
Passengers may be entitled to compensation for long delays or cancellations under EU Regulation 261/2004, which mandates that airlines compensate passengers under certain conditions. Make sure to ask about this if your flight is significantly delayed or canceled.
Consider Alternative Routes
If flights are full or schedules are overloaded, it may be helpful to consider alternative routes or airports, depending on your destination. In some cases, train or bus services can serve as viable alternatives to flights.
Conclusion
With over 232 flight cancellations and 3,130 delays reported across multiple European airports and airlines, travel disruptions are expected to continue in the coming days. Passengers should remain vigilant, check flight statuses frequently, and explore their options for rebooking and compensation. While the situation is challenging, staying informed and prepared will help minimize the inconvenience during this turbulent period.
Source: FlightAware and Affected Airports
