29 January 2014

Air Traffic Strikes – Is It Time For Military Control?

Air traffic control strikes are causing more travel disruption across Europe for thousands of passengers this week. This is due to proposed cost cuts and reforms.

Portuguese controllers were on strike today from 0700 hrs to 0900hrs and then again from 1400 hrs to 1600hrs. Italian air traffic controllers are also striking this afternoon from 1300hrs until 1700 hrs local time.

French air traffic will also join the industrial action on Thursday 30 January, with Paris airports reportedly cutting scheduled airline flights by 20 percent.

One of the contentious issues is the proposed implementation of the Single European Sky Project. This reform is needed to unify Europe as one sky – which makes sense for both efficiency and capacity of the air traffic system.

In reality, it’s madness that separate countries ‘control’ one part of the sky. Navigating through different air spaces obviously creates issues, but is it possible to find a mutually agreeable solution with everyone fighting over navigation fees and control?

With so many Air Traffic Control Strikes in Europe, is military control the answer?

A joint European Air Force governing Air Traffic Control would:
1. Create direct flight routings – saving approx 5% on emissions immediately
2. Eliminate strikes – saving passengers and airlines significant cost and disruption

After a period of 5 years, control could then be handed over to a joint European civilian organisation.

This may be a a drastic proposal; but ask the passengers delayed this week if they would like an end to these strikes and cheaper air fares in the future!

Private jet travel during airline strikes

Private jets are also impacted by industrial action, but less so than airlines. Private aircraft can be re-routed at very short notice, and the flexibility of private jet travel makes it possible to work around most kinds of travel disruption.

For advice on private jet travel contact us or call our multi-lingual team on +44 (0)1747 642 777

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