Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Thousands of Travelers Isolated in Europe as Ryanair, Finnair, Wizz Cancel 252 Flights and Delay 1,673 Amid General Strike in Belgium, Affecting Finland, Spain, Poland at Brussels, Helsinki, Madrid, Warsaw Airports
Published on
October 14, 2025
Thousands of travelers are facing unprecedented disruptions across Europe today as Ryanair, Finnair, and Wizz Air have been forced to cancel 252 flights and delay 1,673 due to a combination of factors. The general strike in Belgium has had a significant impact, causing massive delays at Brussels Airport, with ripple effects reaching airports in Finland, Spain, and Poland. Travelers flying out of Helsinki, Madrid, and Warsaw airports are experiencing chaos as these strikes have disrupted operations, leaving passengers stranded. The general strike in Belgium is a key cause, but safety concerns with Finnair’s aircraft and operational challenges have added to the mayhem. Passengers are urged to stay updated on flight statuses, as the cancellations and delays are expected to continue throughout the day. This massive travel turmoil has left many travelers isolated, unable to reach their destinations as planned.
Total Delays and Cancellations Today
The total number of delays across European airports has reached 1,673, while 252 cancellations have caused widespread chaos. These disruptions have been exacerbated by a combination of a general strike in Belgium and a safety issue with Finnair’s Airbus fleet. Passengers across many airports are facing significant delays as airlines struggle to recover.
Affected Airports, Cities, and CountriesBelgium:
- Brussels International Airport (BRU): Most departing flights cancelled, with about half of inbound flights grounded.
- Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL): No flights departing or landing. Complete shutdown of Airport.
Other European Airports:
- Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL): 62 delays, 25 cancellations
- London Heathrow (LHR): 104 delays, 15 cancellations
- Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS): 204 delays, 10 cancellations
- Charles de Gaulle/Roissy (CDG): 227 delays, 10 cancellations
- Barcelona Int’l (BCN): 215 delays, 10 cancellations
- Warsaw Frederic Chopin (WAW): 91 delays, 6 cancellations
- Dublin Int’l (DUB): 83 delays, 4 cancellations
- General Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS): 129 delays, 5 cancellations
- Copenhagen (CPH): 69 delays, 1 cancellation
- Stockholm-Arlanda (ARN): 47 delays, 1 cancellation
- Leonardo da Vinci Int’l (Fiumicino) (FCO): 120 delays, 1 cancellation
- Vienna Int’l (VIE): 69 delays, 1 cancellation
- Geneva Cointrin Int’l (GVA): 53 delays, 2 cancellations
The Reasons Behind the DisruptionsGeneral Strike in Belgium
The ongoing general strike in Belgium has been a significant cause of disruption, with protests against recent pension reforms and labor market changes. The strike led to flight cancellations and severe interruptions to public transport in Brussels. Brussels International Airport (BRU) and Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) have been directly affected, with most flights grounded, and local transport in Brussels coming to a halt. Around eighty thousand people took to the streets, causing further delays.
Finnair Flight Cancellations Due to Safety Concerns
Another major factor contributing to today’s travel disruptions is the safety issue with Finnair’s Airbus A320 fleet. The airline was forced to cancel 40 flights after concerns arose regarding their cleaning practices. The airline had washed the seat covers with water, which unbeknownst to them, compromised the fire resistance of the covers. This was only brought to light after a warning from the seat manufacturer, leading to the temporary suspension of eight Airbus A321 aircraft for further inspections. This safety issue has impacted Finnair’s operations significantly, with more cancellations and delays expected in the coming hours as the airline works to resolve the issue.
European Airlines Affected by Today’s Disruptions
Several European airlines are facing significant disruptions today due to strikes, safety concerns, and operational challenges. The following airlines have reported delays and cancellations:
- Ryanair: 113 cancellations and 407 delays, largely caused by the Belgian general strike.
- Finnair: 40 cancellations due to safety concerns with water-cleaned seats.
- British Airways: 9 cancellations and 55 delays, affected by the Belgian strike and operational delays.
- Air France (France): 8 cancellations and 111 delays, impacted by the general strike.
- Vueling Airlines (Spain): 7 cancellations and 108 delays due to disruptions in air traffic.
- easyJet (UK): 6 cancellations and 349 delays, exacerbated by public transport issues and strike activities in Belgium.
- SAS Link (Sweden): 6 cancellations and 10 delays, caused by the broader European air traffic disruptions.
- Wizz Air (Hungary): 4 cancellations and 87 delays, affected by operational issues and strikes in multiple countries.
European airlines such as Ryanair, Finnair, and easyJet are seeing the most significant impacts today. Passengers are advised to check their flight statuses for real-time updates.
What Affected Passengers Can Do Now
Given the current travel disruptions, it’s crucial for passengers to stay informed and take the necessary steps:
1. Monitor Flight Status
Passengers are urged to regularly check their flight status for updates on cancellations and delays. Both airport websites and airline apps will provide real-time information. For those traveling to Belgium, the ongoing strike may lead to further interruptions, so staying updated on the latest news is essential.
2. Contact Airlines for Rebooking
Passengers affected by Finnair cancellations should contact the airline for rebooking on the next available flight. Ryanair, British Airways, and other carriers affected by the strike also offer rebooking options. For those impacted by the Belgian strike, airlines are generally assisting in rebooking passengers. Be sure to inquire about possible compensation for the inconvenience.
3. Alternative Transport in Belgium
For those in Brussels, public transport disruptions will likely persist, with train, bus, and tram services suspended. Consider using taxis, ride-sharing services, or private transport options to navigate the city. Check with your hotel or local services for advice on alternate routes.
4. Safety Inspections and Delays at Finnair
Passengers flying with Finnair should expect delays and cancellations until the safety inspections are complete. It’s advisable to stay in touch with the airline for rebooking or compensation options for impacted flights.
Conclusion
Today’s travel disruptions across Europe, fueled by the general strike in Belgium and the safety issue with Finnair’s Airbus fleet, have caused widespread delays and cancellations. With 1,673 delays and 252 cancellations, passengers should remain patient and proactive. Staying informed about flight statuses, contacting airlines for rebooking, and utilizing alternative transport options where necessary will help mitigate some of the challenges caused by these disruptions.
Source: FlightAware, Reuters
