Flight cancellations, strikes raise fears of new summer travel chaos in Europe

British Airways canceled dozens of flights on Friday, blaming computer problems for disrupting plans for thousands of passengers at the start of a busy holiday weekend, adding to broader concerns about European summer travel chaos. The technical glitches and airport staff strikes are reviving fears of last year’s post-pandemic disruptions, including delays, cancellations and large numbers of lost bags. Of the 42 affected flights in London, most were short-haul routes to and from Heathrow, Europe’s busiest airport. BA said the issue was being fixed, while other flights faced delays and some passengers couldn’t check in online. The industry is preparing for peak demand as schools start a weeklong break alongside a three-day U.K. holiday. IATA warned strikes could be especially problematic, citing French actions that have led to up to 30% of flights canceled at Paris Orly on some days, and a three-day Heathrow security guard strike.