The mercury is rising. And British airlines are running for cover. Paris is 'punishingly hot' today. A heatwave is scorching Western Europe. Temperatures are expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius. That is dangerous. Not just for humans. For planes too.
Whitehall sources confirm: several British carriers have rerouted flights. They are avoiding Paris airspace. The heat reduces lift. It makes takeoffs risky. Especially for fully loaded long-haul aircraft. So the bean counters have pulled the plug. Passengers are furious. But safety comes first.
This is not a one-off. Climate change is making these events more frequent. The Lobby is buzzing. Ministers are worried. This could become a recurring headache. Expect internal memos. Expect 'urgent reviews.' The summer of 2023 is shaping up to be a political hot potato.
The French government is on the back foot. President Macron faces a backlash. 'Climate inaction' is the accusation. A gift for the opposition. The greens are licking their lips. The far-right is blaming immigration. Classic.
Back in London, Number 10 is watching nervously. Polling data is sensitive. Voters are concerned about the cost of living. A heatwave-driven travel chaos just adds to the pain. The PM wants to look decisive. But there is little he can do. The weather is not controlled by Westminster.
Meanwhile, the transport secretary is holding calls. Airlines are being told to 'communicate clearly.' 'Customer service' is the buzzword. But the reality is grim. Rerouted flights cost money. Compensation claims will follow. The insurance firms will pay. But the reputational damage? That lasts.
This story is not going away. By the weekend, the heatwave peaks. Then it eases. But the political fallout will simmer. Cabinet revolts are possible. The green wing wants more action. The fiscal conservatives want to avoid costs. The PM is stuck in the middle.
My source in the department for transport says: 'We are monitoring. Contingency plans are ready.' Translation: We have no idea what will happen next.
So watch this space. The heatwave is a crisis. But crises create opportunities. For some. The backbenchers are sharpening their knives. The lobby is gathering intelligence. I will have more soon.
Eleanor Rigby, Political Bureau Chief.
