1. Flight Disruptions
  2. Europe travel disruption: 2,383 delays and 84 cancellations hit multiple countries; BA, Lufthansa, Ryanair affected

Europe travel disruption: 2,383 delays and 84 cancellations hit multiple countries; BA, Lufthansa, Ryanair affected

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Checked by Josh Arnfield

Last updated on 29 January 2026

2,467

Affected flights

3

Affected airlines

What Happened

Europe is facing widespread flight disruptions due to winter storms, with 2,383 delays and 84 cancellations reported. Countries affected include Norway, Austria, Finland, Italy and Denmark. Major airlines named in the disruption include British Airways, Lufthansa and Ryanair, with impacts noted in cities such as Rome, Madrid and Oslo. Travellers are advised to check their flight status with their airline and allow extra time at the airport.

Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to £520 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.

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Flight Disruption Details

Air travellers across parts of Europe are experiencing widespread disruptions due to winter storms, with 2,383 flight delays and 84 cancellations reported. The disruption spans multiple countries, including Norway, Austria, Finland, Italy and Denmark, and is affecting major routes to and from cities such as Rome, Madrid and Oslo.

Several major airlines are named among those impacted, including British Airways, Lufthansa and Ryanair. The situation involves both delays and cancellations across numerous flights, indicating broad operational challenges across the network on the day of reporting.

Given the breadth of the disruption across several countries and carriers, passengers booked to travel today should check their flight status directly with their airline and monitor notifications closely. Those departing from or arriving in affected cities such as Rome, Madrid and Oslo should allow additional time at the airport and be prepared for potential schedule changes, gate adjustments or rebooking.

Where flights are cancelled, airlines typically provide rerouting options or refunds. For delayed flights, travellers should follow airline guidance on care provisions at the airport and any re-accommodation steps if onward connections are impacted.

Key facts confirmed:
- 2,383 flights delayed
- 84 flights cancelled
- Countries cited: Norway, Austria, Finland, Italy, Denmark and others
- Airlines cited: British Airways, Lufthansa, Ryanair (and others)
- Cities mentioned: Rome, Madrid, Oslo

Passengers should rely on airline communications for updates on individual flights and any available assistance.

Know your rights

These are your air passenger rights

When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:

Rerouting or refund

If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.

Food and essential care

Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.

Accommodation

Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.

Compensation

Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.

This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.

Quick facts

Summary

Disruption

Delays and Cancellations

Cause

Other

Status

Current disruption

Compensation

May qualify for compensation

Flights affected

2467

Airlines affected

British Airways, Lufthansa, Ryanair

Checked by

Josh Arnfield

Date updated

29 January 2026

What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled

If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:

Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, cancelled, or overbooked.

Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.

Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.

Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.

Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.

Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.

If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.

Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.

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