EasyJet cancels 200 flights amid cabin crew strike

Budget airline easyJet has announced the grounding of a total 232 flights due to cabin crew strikes. The industrial action has affected 27 round trips in the UK including departures from London Gatwick, Luton, Manchester and Glasgow. Belfast International flights to Portugal continue to run.

Late last month, the carrier’s Portugal-based cabin staff announced a strike would take place between 15 and 17 August.

According to union SNPVAC, the action is due to easyJet’s staff shortages creating pressure for existing employees to work extra hours.

An easyJet spokesperson said: “We are extremely disappointed with this needless strike action, especially at this important time of the year for our customers.

“Our priority has been to try and minimise the impact of this strike action on our customers, which included cancelling some flights in advance in order to allow them to rearrange their travel plans.”

EasyJet said that passengers have been informed that their flights are cancelled. According to EasyJet’s cancellation policy, any necessary hotel cost will be covered by the airline if the cancellation leaves travellers stranded. Passengers should have the option to either rebook free of charge or receive a full refund in either cash or voucher form.

The airline flies to three of Portugal’s cities: Lisbon, Porto and Faro.

Earlier this summer airlines including Ryanair and easyJet were fined €150 million for charging extra for carry-on luggage.