In light of fears of Europe-wide air traffic chaos this summer, the Vida union is now warning of significant problems at Vienna Airport. The union sees the ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers as the primary cause, despite steadily increasing passenger volumes. Daniel Liebhart, head of the aviation department at Vida, is therefore calling for an intensified training program for air traffic controllers in Austria and across Europe.
The warning follows a letter from EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas to European transport ministers, in which he pointed to the serious delays in European airspace already experienced last year and feared a further escalation of the situation for the coming summer. The Commissioner expects an increase in daily flights from 35.000 last year to up to 38.000 this summer. Tzitzikostas therefore urged an immediate start to the recruitment and training of additional air traffic control personnel.
Vienna Airport is also facing a tense situation. In 2024, the airport recorded a new record of 31,72 million passengers, surpassing the 2019 figures for the first time. Furthermore, overflights over Austrian territory reached a record level. Liebhart emphasizes that air traffic control providers are under heavy strain and that the necessary staffing levels are progressing slowly. He warns of massive delays and potential safety risks during the upcoming peak travel season if swift countermeasures are not taken.
The Vida union is calling on the European Commission to create a legal framework that allows for long-term personnel planning and investment in air traffic controller training. The Commission's current austerity measures and deregulation efforts would make sustainable personnel policies difficult. Liebhart calls for a joint effort by politicians, air traffic control authorities, and unions to ensure the stability and safety of European air traffic this summer.
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