Ryanair presses EU for overflights to be protected from air traffic control strikes

CEO Michael O'Leary told reporters France's location meant the cancellation of flights merely passing through its airspace during local strikes was particularly disruptive and polluting

Ryanair said it called on the commission to protect 100% of overflights, require a 21-day notice of strike action and a 72-hour notice of employee participation in ATC strikes, among other measures. Picture: David Creedon

Ryanair delivered a petition signed by 1.1m EU passengers to the European Commission, demanding overflights be protected from air traffic control (ATC) strikes, particularly in France, to help avoid travel disruption.

Earlier this month, the trade group Airlines for Europe, which represents companies such as Lufthansa and Air France-KLM as well as Ryanair, also called on the commission to take action.