Strikes Affecting Travel in Europe This Spring
Travel disruptions due to strikes can be particularly challenging to navigate, especially when they occur across various countries in Europe. Some strikes are planned well in advance, while others can be announced with little notice. Here’s a detailed overview of the upcoming strikes that travelers should be aware of this spring.
24 February: Aviation Strike in Italy
Starting at midday on 24 February, passengers traveling to Italy may experience significant disruptions as three unions have announced a four-hour strike. The unions involved include the National Association of Professional Civil Aviation, the Italian Federation of Transport Workers, and the Italian General Confederation of Labour. This strike could potentially lead to the grounding of flights to and from the UK.
EasyJet has stated that it intends to maintain its full flight schedule, assuring customers that it is taking all necessary measures to minimize disruption. Travelers are advised to check their flight status using the airline’s Flight Tracker for any updates. Additionally, cabin crew and pilots from the Italian airline Aeroitalia will also participate in this walkout.
28 February: Strike by Baggage Handlers in Venice and Milan
Baggage handlers at Venice Marco Polo Airport are set to engage in a 24-hour strike on 28 February. Meanwhile, baggage handlers at Milan’s Bergamo Orio al Serio airport will strike for four hours, specifically from 12 PM to 4 PM on the same day. The extent of the impact on flights remains uncertain, but it is expected to disrupt ground operations including check-in and baggage drop-off services.
28 February: Greek Air Traffic Controller Walkout
On the same day, there is a looming threat that all passenger flights in Greece could be halted due to a planned nationwide strike by air traffic controllers. This strike is part of a broader general strike advocating for justice for the 57 victims of a tragic train crash that occurred south of the Tempe Valley in Greece on 28 February 2023. Should the walkout proceed, air traffic controllers are likely to only manage essential flights, which include search and rescue operations, medical evacuations, military deployments, and humanitarian aid deliveries. This could lead to severe disruptions and numerous cancellations for passenger flights.
24 February: German Airport Walkouts
Strikes are also scheduled at two of Germany’s busiest airports: Cologne-Bonn and Düsseldorf International. The Verdi trade union announced the planned walkouts, with a spokesperson indicating that there will be “extensive effects on passenger flights at both airports.” The union demands wage increases for airport workers and has signaled the possibility of further actions before the next negotiation round, set to start on 14 March. Düsseldorf International, being Germany’s fourth-largest airport, catered to over 19 million passengers in 2023, while Cologne-Bonn serves as a crucial hub for both passenger and freight transport.
Until 2 March: Disruption in Belgium’s Transportation System
In Belgium, travelers are bracing for prolonged disruption due to a nine-day train strike that commenced on 21 February and is scheduled to conclude at 10 PM on 2 March. Major cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges are expected to be significantly affected, not only in terms of train services but also for other public transport options, including trams, buses, and metro lines. The National Railway Company of Belgium (SNCB) has confirmed the anticipated disruptions and encourages travelers to regularly consult its journey planner for updates.
In addition to these strikes, Belgian airport workers are set to continue their ongoing strikes on the 13th of each month for the foreseeable future. A general strike is also planned for 31 March, all in response to unpopular proposed policies by the new coalition government following Bart De Wever’s appointment as prime minister on 3 February.
Sundays: Avanti West Coast Strikes
While Avanti West Coast has cancelled its strike scheduled for 2 March, passengers are advised to exercise caution when booking trains until the end of May. Train workers plan to resume their ongoing walkouts every Sunday until 25 May. These strikes are likely to result in delays and cancelled services on the UK’s West Coast Main Line, as RMT member workers advocate for resolution over a dispute concerning pay for work conducted on rest days.
Avanti has indicated that if customers booked tickets to travel on strike days prior to the industrial action announcement on 17 December, they may use their tickets on alternative travel dates. For those who no longer wish to travel, a full refund of pre-booked tickets is available. Travelers are encouraged to check Avanti’s website for comprehensive details.
