Editor’s note: This page will be updated as new information emerges.
We always hope your travel will be trouble-free. However, there are several strikes to look out for across Europe in the coming weeks.
If you plan to travel during these dates and need advice, read our guide to insurance policies and strike coverage. Additionally, find out what you may be entitled to in terms of compensation if your flight is delayed or otherwise affected.
Here are European strikes to be aware of.
Related: The best credit cards for trip cancellation and interruption insurance — and what it actually covers
Heathrow baggage handlers
When: Oct. 20-30
Baggage handlers at London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) will go on strike between Oct. 20 and 30 in protest over below-inflation pay offers. This is the second round of planned strikes, with earlier walkouts between Oct. 6 and 9.
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Security staff strikes in Alicante, Spain
When: Oct 6-15, 17, 20-22, 24, 27-29 and 31; Nov. 1-5, 7, 10-12, 14, 17-19, 21, 24-26 and 28; Dec. 1-10, 12, 15-17, 19 and 22-31; Jan. 1-14.
Security staff employed by Ilunion Seguridad will carry out “partial stoppages” in work from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. and from 6 to 7 p.m. on each listed day over disputes involving pay and work conditions.
Paris Metro and air traffic control strikes
When: Oct. 13
Paris Metro station staff have threatened to stage walkouts from Sept. 8 to Oct. 28 at Stade de France in Saint-Denis during the Rugby World Cup.
Air traffic controllers represented by the USAC-CGT and UNSA-Civil Aviation unions will also join the strike. France’s civil aviation authority has asked airlines to cancel flights at airports in Paris and Marseille on Oct. 13. Negotiations are ongoing to resolve the issues.
Related: You are entitled to a refund for your canceled flight — even if the airline says you aren’t
Bottom line
One thing worth remembering about strikes is that nothing is certain, and it’s always possible that unions and employers will reach a deal.
However, the current economic crisis is making things difficult for everyone. Workers are struggling through the deepening cost-of-living crisis, and travel companies are desperate to appease shareholders following the coronavirus pandemic. The pressures on both sides of the fence seem unlikely to evaporate anytime soon.
The chances of more strikes this year are high across the travel sector. Keep an eye on these dates and plan accordingly.
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
