Military 'could run air traffic'

The Spanish government has said it will allow its military to take over control of airspace if air traffic controllers do not return to work.

In a statement, the government called on the controllers to resume work “immediately” or “defence will assume control of airspace”.

A mass walkout by the country’s air traffic controllers forced the country’s air traffic authority to close eight airports, including the major European hub in Madrid on the eve of a major national holiday.