Ryanair Holdings Plc (LON:RYA) told investors that some 13.1mln passengers flew with the budget airline last month, albeit a further 200,000 customers saw their flights cancelled amid the current industrial relations crisis.
It comes as the pilot’s strike continues to escalate. Another day of inactivity by the Dublin-based crew is due on Friday, and, according to reports, a further co-ordinated four-country strike could take place next week – with pilots in Belgium, Sweden, Germany and Netherlands set to strike on Friday, August 10.
READ: Ryanair Holdings cuts back Dublin flights amid pilot strike
“Regrettably almost 200,000 Ryanair customers had their flights cancelled in July because of repeated ATC staff shortages in the UK, Germany and France, adverse weather, and unnecessary pilot and cabin crew strikes,” said Kenny Jacobs, Ryanair chief marketing officer.
“Ryanair, together with other European airlines, calls for urgent action by the EU Commission and European governments to address the effect of these ATC staff shortages which are disrupting the travel plans of millions of Europe's consumers this summer."
Just over 1,000 flights were cancelled during the month, compared to only 23 in July last year.
Ryanair’s monthly traffic report revealed a 4% increase in customers, to 13.1mln, which saw the measure for ‘rolling annual traffic’ up to July rise by 7% to 133.5mln customers.
The airline said the load factor for the flights that went ahead was recorded at 97%.