In Europe, strikes are a common occurrence as employees fight for better pay and conditions. Some walkouts are planned well in advance while others are announced last minute, making it important to stay updated before traveling. Our guide provides information on the latest strikes happening in Europe, including details on flight and train cancellations or delays. For example, workers at airports in Italy recently went on strike causing disruptions, while workers at Gatwick Airport in the UK postponed a strike over pay. Despite the threat of strikes in Paris ahead of the Olympics, a potential summer of strikes on French motorways, and public transport strikes planned in the Netherlands, it is uncertain if further disruptions will occur.
In Italy, unionized airport staff recently walked out causing further disruptions expected at Milan Linate and Bergamo Orio al Serio airports. The strike could take place between 1-5pm, affecting travel plans for passengers. Italy’s transport sector is prohibited from striking between late July and early September, reducing the likelihood of more disruptions in the summer. In the UK, a strike at Gatwick Airport was temporarily postponed as workers vote on a new pay offer. A potential strike by security and passenger services staff could cause delays in services if not resolved before the busy summer holidays.
Workers at Glasgow and Aberdeen airports in Scotland recently averted a strike threat by accepting a new pay offer, including a five per cent basic pay rise and a one-off payment. In France, workers on motorways have begun a summer of strikes protesting against staff shortages, potentially causing disruptions for travelers. Workers at Paris airports recently threatened to strike but reached a deal on pay, ensuring that flights will operate as scheduled. However, a potential seven-month strike notice by the CGT-RATP union members in Paris could impact bus and metro services during the Paris Olympics in the future.
In the Netherlands, public transport workers have announced a strike in major cities on 12 September, with the possibility of more walkouts to follow. This strike is in anticipation of the Cabinet’s budget proposal, which workers hope will address retirement options for those in physically demanding jobs. The possibility of strikes across Europe highlights the importance of staying informed and updated on travel disruptions before embarking on a journey. If there are any major strikes happening in your country that we have missed, feel free to share the information with us on Twitter for inclusion in our guide.
