Airport workers in several European countries are planning strikes this summer, raising the risk of delays and cancellations during the busiest months of the year. The first action affecting the Balearics is at Palma airport on 17 June, when staff who assist passengers with reduced mobility will strike for 24 hours.
Why workers are striking
Unions in several countries are protesting against labour changes they say reduce pay and worsen working conditions. In Portugal, a national strike on 3 June grounded more than 600 flights, with knock-on delays for two days afterwards.
Planned action
| Country | Action | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | 24-hour strike by reduced-mobility assistance staff at Palma | 17 June |
| Spain | Partial ground handling stoppages at 12 airports, plus air traffic control action at 14 | June–July |
| France | One-day strike by ground staff at Charles de Gaulle, Orly and Beauvais | 18 June |
| Italy | 24-hour national ground handling strike | 26 June |
| Italy | Airline, airport and ground handling strike | 5 July |
| Portugal | Further strikes possible, dates to be confirmed | – |
| Germany, Belgium | Risk of short-notice strikes at major hubs | – |
What strikes can mean for you
- Delays or cancellations if planes cannot be loaded or handled.
- Longer queues at check-in, security and baggage reclaim.
- Longer waits for wheelchair and mobility assistance.
How to reduce the risk
Check before you go. Look at your airline’s app or website the night before and the morning of your flight, and follow the airport’s updates.
Don’t cancel first. If a strike is announced, wait for the airline to confirm any cancellation. Cancelling yourself can mean losing your right to a refund or rebooking.
Travel light. Hand luggage only means you won’t be affected if baggage handlers walk out. Keep medication, chargers and snacks with you.
Arrive early. Extra time at the airport can absorb longer queues.
Check your insurance. Most policies do not cover strikes that had already been announced when you bought the cover.
Your rights
Under EU rules, if your flight is cancelled the airline must offer you a refund or an alternative flight, and provide meals and, if necessary, accommodation while you wait. Keep receipts for any expenses. Strikes by an airline’s own staff can also entitle you to compensation; strikes by airport or air traffic control staff usually do not.
