In Europe, strikes are common occurrences as employees protest for better pay and conditions. Some walkouts are planned well in advance while others are announced at the last minute, making it important to check for any disruptions before traveling. The guide provides information on upcoming strikes in different countries, offering details on where and when they will take place. In the event of a canceled or delayed flight or train, passengers are entitled to compensation or a new ticket, and the guide outlines the full details regarding their rights.
In the UK, Heathrow Airport faces potential disruptions due to strikes by Border Force workers and staff in various departments over outsourcing plans. Gatwick Airport has seen strikes called off, ensuring that catering workers will not walk out, preventing passengers on easyJet and TUI flights from being left hungry. Train strikes in May will affect some of the busiest commuter routes, with different operators walking out on various days. An overtime ban by train drivers’ union ASLEF is also expected to result in cancellations on certain lines during the strike period.
In Iceland, workers at Keflavík Airport threaten to strike over a labor dispute, which could lead to flight disruptions. Security workers plan stoppages and an indefinite overtime ban if the issue is not resolved. In Italy, national and regional train strikes are planned, affecting services across the country. Engine personnel will walk off the job for 23 hours on 19 May, with further strikes in various regions on different dates. In France, Vueling staff are set to strike over the upcoming bank holiday, impacting flights with the Spanish budget airline. There is also a potential for strikes during the Paris Olympics, as unions announce a seven-month strike notice that could affect the transport network during major events.
The threat of train strikes in Germany has been resolved as Deutsche Bahn reaches an agreement with the GDL train drivers’ union, ending five months of negotiations and strikes. The deal ensures that the union will refrain from striking until at least February 2026. The guide is regularly updated with new strike information as soon as it is announced, allowing travelers to stay informed about any potential disruptions in their country. If any major strikes are missing from the guide, readers are encouraged to notify through Twitter for inclusion in the updates.
