Holidaymakers heading to Spain from mid-August are being warned to prepare for possible travel chaos as baggage handlers at 12 major Spanish airports announce a series of strikes.
More than 3,000 workers are set to walk out between 15 and 17 August, with further strikes planned every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday through to the end of December. The industrial action, organised by the UGT union, will involve employees of ground handling firm Azul Handling.
The affected airports include:
- Valencia
- Alicante
- Madrid
- Barcelona
- Seville
- Malaga
- Ibiza
- Palma de Mallorca
- Girona
- Tenerife South
- Lanzarote
- Santiago de Compostela
Strike times are expected to be 5am–9am, 12pm–3pm and 9pm–11.59pm on the designated days.
Although by law a “minimum service” must be provided, the union says the walkouts are in protest at sanctions on workers, alleged excessive working hours, restrictions on medical leave, and the lack of stable job creation. They are also seeking improved conditions for part-time staff.
Negotiations through the Interconfederal Mediation and Arbitration Service (SIMA) have been requested, but the union warns it is prepared to continue action until there is “a real negotiation process” and working conditions improve.
What this means for travellers:
While the strikes are expected to impact baggage handling services, the extent of disruption will vary by airport and airline. Travellers with flights to or from Spain during the strike dates should:
- Arrive at the airport earlier than usual
- Pack essential items in hand luggage in case of baggage delays
- Monitor airline updates and check airport websites for changes
Know your rights
Under UK and EU law, compensation is not normally payable for delays or cancellations caused by strikes considered “extraordinary circumstances”, but airlines must still offer rebooking or refunds where flights are cancelled. Travel insurance may cover additional expenses – check your policy for details and keep documentation of any delays.
