Employees seeking improved working conditions often prompt strikes across the 27-nation bloc (European Union). These industrial actions disrupt social order and hinder travel due to congestion or workforce shortages. With the new year approaching, monitoring the disruptions happening in the EU is essential to ensure your travel plans are not hampered. Here is a list of strikes that can impact travel across Europe in the near future.
Iberia ground services staff plan walkouts from December 29 to January 1 and January 4 to 7, affecting all airports the carrier serves. They reportedly protest working conditions and outsourcing plans. Moreover, Alicante-Elche airport's private security staff might strike from December 22–31, continuing into January 1–14, impacting security and baggage handling from 8:45–9:45 am and 6–7 pm.
Workers are opposing new regulations demanding a 48-hour strike notice, a requirement seen in Spain, Portugal, and Greece. Despite the initial outcry, French train workers will reportedly not strike during Christmas and New Year, benefiting holiday travellers. Yet, post-holiday walkouts may arise due to unresolved wage disputes.
After recent strikes, the region anticipates another on December 22 due to worker protests against a proposed pay freeze. Expect delays and cancellations on trains and buses, mainly affecting school transport and local businesses.
Authorities suggest staying informed about flight updates and checking statuses before travel due to frequent strikes causing last-minute cancellations. Investing in travel insurance to cover expenses from missed or delayed flights is advisable. Companies like AXA Travel Insurance, Europ Assistance, Allianz Travel Insurance, Mondial Care, Mutuaide, and DR-WALTER provide reliable options for a secure European holiday.
Meanwhile, Iceland's air traffic controllers, like their European counterparts, demand improved pay conditions. The upcoming strikes mark the third round in five years amid ongoing negotiations between the Icelandic Air Traffic Controller Association and the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprise, representing Isavia, the leading airport operator. Previous strikes at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) and Reykjavík Airport (RKV) disrupted flights for 13,000 passengers two weeks ago, with expectations of similar impacts.
