Prague Airport is taking proactive steps to prevent a repeat of last summer’s baggage handling fiasco through aggressive recruitment efforts. Since January, the airport has successfully hired 344 new employees, with 210 in full-time positions. However, various challenges could still lead to flight delays and disruptions in the coming months.
The security sector has seen significant reinforcement, with 106 new staff members joining security checkpoints and airport security operations. This represents an 8% increase in personnel compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, CSA Handling, responsible for baggage operations, has recruited over 100 full-time employees and plans to bring in additional seasonal workers.
Despite these improvements, European air traffic challenges persist. Eurocontrol reports a 5% increase in air traffic across Europe, with further growth expected during summer. Major hubs including Athens, Barcelona, Budapest, and Munich are experiencing severe air traffic controller shortages, potentially causing delays ranging from several minutes to hours.
Adding to these concerns, weather conditions and potential strikes could further impact travel plans. The airline industry faces particular pressure from labor unions, with Smartwings – Czech Republic’s largest carrier – currently under strike alert. Union representatives cite pilot shortage and overwork as primary concerns.
Travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours before their flights, particularly when checking in luggage. The airport has also invested in new technology, including six new check-in scanners and expanded self-service baggage drop-off points, to enhance efficiency.