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 that offer trip cancellation and interruption insurance
London Gatwick Airport
When: Aug. 18-21 and 22-28
Ground handling staff members employed by two companies will strike later this month at London Gatwick Airport (LGW).
Staff members working for Red Handling strike Aug. 25-28. It will primarily affect ground-handling resources for Norse Atlantic Airways, Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA, Delta Air Lines, TAP Air Portugal and Saudia.
Staff members of Wilson James will join the strike on Aug. 18-20 and 22-24.
An earlier strike set for Aug. 18-21 was called off following revised pay offers from both companies. If this offer is accepted, the later strikes will also be called off.
London Luton Airport
When: Aug. 30, Sept. 6 and 13
Ground handling staff at London Luton Airport (LTN) working primarily with Wizz Air are due to stage three 24-hour strikes on Aug. 30 and Sept. 6 and 13.
The staff who are employed by GH London Ground Handling Services have called the strike over poor working conditions.
According to Unite, the union representing the affected staff, any strike could potentially cause “huge disruption to Wizz’s schedule.”
Paris Metro
When: Sept. 8 to Oct. 28
Paris Metro station staff have threatened to stage walkouts from Sept. 8 to Oct. 28 at Stade de France, Saint-Denis, during the Rugby World Cup.
The proposed strike concerns bonus pay during the event, which is currently offered to train drivers but not station staff.
Negotiations are ongoing in an attempt 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 regarding 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 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.
Related reading:
- Key travel tips you need to know — whether you’re a beginner or expert traveler
- The best travel credit cards
- The 18 best places to travel in 2023
- 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
- 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
- 13 must-have items the TPG team can’t travel without
Additional reporting by Matt Blake.
