Poland: Flight disruptions possible nationwide through mid-April amid dispute between air traffic controllers and aviation authorities

Event

Flight disruptions are possible at Polish airports nationwide through at least mid-April and likely beyond this date, as a dispute between air traffic controllers and the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PANSA) prompts mass resignations. Dozens of air traffic controllers, many of whom are based at the Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW), have already vacated their positions, while over 160 more are currently in their notice period and will leave their positions at the end of the month. Flights throughout Poland have experienced low to moderate delays in recent days; arrivals at WAW have been particularly affected.

Negotiations between employees and PANSA are ongoing. Further information regarding the level of disruptions will likely be announced once the outcome of negotiations becomes clear. A failure to reach an agreement would likely lead to disruptions and crowding at airports, particularly given the likely higher number of passengers in the run-up to the Easter holidays.

Advice

Contact airlines to confirm flight status if booked to fly via Polish airports through mid-April. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Arrive at the airport early to prevent your seat from being allocated to a standby passenger.