Thousands of Passengars Stranded in Europe as UK, France, Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Belgium Delay 2,995 and Cancel 143 Flights, Impacting Air France, KLM, Lufthansa and others in London, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona and more

Published on December 18, 2025

In a major disruption to European air travel, thousands of passengers are left stranded as nearly 3,000 flights have been delayed and 143 canceled across several major European airports. The delays and cancellations are affecting a wide range of countries, including the UK, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and Belgium. Major carriers like Air France, KLM, and Lufthansa are among the airlines heavily impacted, with travelers experiencing significant delays in cities such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and others. This chaos has left passengers scrambling to find alternate routes or rebook their flights, while airports are seeing overcrowded terminals and long wait times. With the holiday season approaching, travelers are urged to stay informed and check for updates on their flight statuses as the disruptions continue.

Updated Today

London Heathrow (LHR), one of the world’s busiest airports, saw 7 cancellations and 163 delays. These disruptions have affected passengers on both international and domestic routes, leading to longer wait times and flight rescheduling. Travelers are advised to check their flight status regularly and stay updated through the airport’s communication channels to avoid unnecessary stress.

Similarly, Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) reported 8 cancellations and 146 delays. The ripple effect has been felt across various European and international flights, leaving passengers facing uncertainty about rebooking options and potential missed connections. With heightened security measures and congestion at the airport, it is essential for travelers to arrive early and remain flexible with their travel plans.

Both airports are working to minimize disruptions, but with continued delays expected, passengers should remain patient and informed. Travelers are encouraged to check with their airlines for alternative options and possible compensations for affected flights.

Other Airlines like Air France (Cancelled 0, Delayed 5), British Airways (Cancelled 0, Delayed 1) seen in Europe

Affected Airports Due to this Cancellation

London Heathrow (LHR)

London Heathrow (LHR), one of the busiest airports in the world, has been severely impacted, with 573 delays and 20 cancellations reported in the last 24 hours. As the primary gateway to the UK, this disruption has caused major ripples throughout international and domestic flights. Passengers traveling to and from London have been advised to check for updates frequently as additional delays are expected due to operational challenges at the airport.

Paris Orly (ORY)

Paris Orly (ORY) are also struggling with flight delays and cancellations. Orly Airport, a major hub for low-cost carriers, reported 6 cancellations and 124 delays, The ripple effect has affected not only passengers flying from Paris but also travelers connecting through the French capital, leading to missed connections and increased travel times.

Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)

Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) are also in turmoil, with over 231 delays combined. Schiphol reported 22 cancellations and 231 delays, These delays have primarily affected international flights, leading to disruptions across Europe and beyond. Both airports are facing heavy congestion as passengers try to rebook or find alternate routes.

Barcelona Int’l (BCN)

Barcelona International (BCN) experienced 6 cancellations and 119 delays, impacting both domestic and international flights. Passengers are advised to check for updates due to ongoing disruptions at the airport.

Frankfurt International (FRA)

Frankfurt International (FRA) reported 4 cancellations and 533 delays, causing significant disruptions to flights. Passengers are urged to stay updated on their flight status as delays continue to affect travel times.

Charles de Gaulle/Roissy (CDG)

Charles de Gaulle/Roissy (CDG) saw 16 cancellations and 322 delays, leading to major disruptions for travelers. Passengers are advised to check for flight updates and anticipate longer wait times at the airport.

Rome Fiumicino (FCO)

Rome Fiumicino (FCO) experienced 40 cancellations and 229 delays, significantly affecting both domestic and international flights. Travelers are encouraged to check their flight status regularly for any updates or rebooking options.

Madrid Adolfo Suarez Barajas (MAD)

Madrid Adolfo Suárez Barajas (MAD) reported 11 cancellations and 218 delays, impacting flights across Europe and beyond. Passengers are advised to stay informed about their flight status and prepare for potential delays.

Zurich (Kloten) (ZRH)

Zurich (Kloten) (ZRH) experienced 6 cancellations and 117 delays, causing disruptions for travelers. Passengers are encouraged to monitor their flight status closely as delays continue to affect operations.

Berlin Brandenburg (BER)

Berlin Brandenburg (BER) reported 6 cancellations and 108 delays, impacting both domestic and international flights. Passengers are advised to stay updated on their flight status due to ongoing disruptions at the airport.

Vienna International (VIE)

Vienna International (VIE) saw 1 cancellation and 120 delays, affecting several flights. Passengers are encouraged to check for real-time updates as delays continue to impact airport operations.

Brussels (BRU)

Brussels (BRU) experienced 4 cancellations and 116 delays, causing travel disruptions for passengers. Travelers are advised to stay informed about their flight status as delays continue at the airport.

Munich International (MUC)

Munich International (MUC) reported 1 cancellation and 185 delays, significantly impacting flight schedules. Passengers are advised to stay updated on their flight status due to ongoing disruptions.

Airlines Affected Due To Flight Cancellation

British Airways

British Airways reported 17 cancellations and 326 delays, affecting numerous flights across various routes. Passengers are advised to check for updates and expect potential delays in their travel plans.

Air France

Air France experienced 4 cancellations and 5 delays, causing moderate disruptions to its flight operations. Passengers are encouraged to check for updates and expect possible delays at affected airports.

KLM Flights

KLM reported 16 cancellations and 107 delays, causing disruptions to several flights. Passengers are advised to monitor their flight status for any updates or rebooking options due to ongoing delays.

Lufthansa Airlines

Lufthansa Airlines reported 1 cancellation and 261 delays, impacting numerous flights across various routes. Passengers are advised to stay updated on their flight status as delays continue to affect travel schedules.

Wizz Air Malta

Wizz Air Malta faced 13 cancellations and 39 delays, causing disruptions for passengers. Travelers are encouraged to check for updates on their flight status due to ongoing operational delays.

Iberia Flights

Iberia Flights reported 9 cancellations and 35 delays, affecting both domestic and international routes. Passengers are advised to stay informed about their flight status and potential delays.

Swiss Air

Swiss Air experienced 4 cancellations and 36 delays, impacting several flights. Passengers are urged to check for updates and prepare for potential delays in their travel plans.

How Travellers were impacted due to these cancellation

London Heathrow (LHR):

• 20 cancellations and 573 delays caused long wait times and flight rescheduling.
• Passengers faced congestion and missed connections, particularly for international flights.

Paris Orly (ORY):

• 6 cancellations and 124 delays affected both domestic and European routes.
• Disruptions led to crowded terminals and delays in baggage handling.

Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS):

• 22 cancellations and 231 delays led to overcrowded terminals and long queues.
• Many passengers faced uncertainty regarding their flight connections.

Frankfurt International (FRA):

• 4 cancellations and 533 delays caused extensive flight schedule disruptions.
• Passengers experienced long waiting times and difficulty rebooking flights.

Charles de Gaulle (CDG):

• 16 cancellations and 322 delays affected both short and long-haul flights.
• Disruptions led to flight diversions and longer travel times for passengers.

Rome Fiumicino (FCO):

• 40 cancellations and 229 delays impacted flights across Europe and beyond.
• Passengers experienced crowded terminals and significant delays for rebooking.

Madrid Adolfo Suárez Barajas (MAD):

• 11 cancellations and 218 delays caused travel delays, especially on international routes.
• Passengers faced uncertainty regarding flight status and lengthy waiting times.

Barcelona International (BCN):

• 6 cancellations and 119 delays affected both local and international flights.
• Delays and cancellations led to rebooking challenges and missed connections.

Zurich (ZRH):

• 6 cancellations and 117 delays caused disruptions, particularly on European routes.
• Passengers faced longer wait times and flight rebooking due to operational challenges.

Berlin Brandenburg (BER):

• 6 cancellations and 108 delays resulted in flight schedule changes and rebooking difficulties.
• Passengers experienced longer waits and the possibility of connecting flight disruptions.

Vienna International (VIE):

• 1 cancellation and 120 delays led to minor disruptions, affecting connections and travel times.
• Travelers experienced slight delays and difficulty with onward travel.

Brussels (BRU):

• 4 cancellations and 116 delays caused significant disruption to both regional and international flights.
• Passengers faced delays in departure and uncertainty about rebooking flights.

Munich International (MUC):

• 1 cancellation and 185 delays impacted flight schedules, particularly for international routes.
• Passengers experienced wait times and potential rebooking challenges due to delays.

Advise for Passengars

• Check Flight Status Regularly: Stay updated on cancellations and delays through airline apps or the airport’s website.
• Arrive Early: Allow extra time for security checks, rebooking, and potential long waits due to delays.
• Monitor Airport Announcements: Pay attention to gate changes and updates for your flight.
• Stay in Contact with Airlines: If your flight is canceled or delayed, contact the airline for rebooking options or compensation.
• Be Prepared for Rebooking: Have flexibility in your travel plans and be ready for alternative flight options if necessary.
• Pack Essentials in Carry-On: Ensure you have food, water, medications, and entertainment if you’re facing long wait times.
• Know Your Rights: Understand passenger rights regarding compensation, food vouchers, and hotel stays during significant delays or cancellations.
• Consider Travel Insurance: If you haven’t already, travel insurance can help cover unexpected delays, cancellations, and other disruptions.
• Stay Calm and Patient: Airport staff are working to resolve the situation, so maintaining a calm demeanor will help smooth out the process.
• Check for Alternative Transportation: In case of prolonged delays, look for alternate transport options, such as trains or buses.

Conclusion

As the flight delays and cancellations continue to affect airports across Europe, travelers must remain vigilant and adaptable to navigate the travel chaos. With nearly 3,000 delayed flights and 143 cancellations, airports in key European cities like London, Paris, and Amsterdam are experiencing operational challenges that are causing widespread inconvenience. Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, and other major airlines are working to rebook passengers, but the process is proving difficult due to the scale of the disruptions. Passengers are encouraged to stay in touch with their airlines, check for real-time updates, and explore alternate travel options where available. Despite the ongoing challenges, travelers can mitigate the impact by staying informed and being prepared for possible delays or changes to their travel plans.

Source:- Different Airports and flightaware

Image Source:- AI