Strikes set to disrupt Christmas travel from London to southern Europe

Christmas travel across Europe is likely to be disrupted as a wave of strike action is planned at major airports and across transport networks in several countries, including the UK, Italy, Spain and Portugal.

According to a report by the Economic Times, industrial action by airport staff, airline workers and transport employees could affect flights, ferries, rail services and local public transport during one of the busiest travel periods of the year, raising the risk of delays and cancellations around key Christmas dates.

The strikes are largely driven by disputes over pay, working conditions and proposed labour reforms. Trade unions argue that many workers are facing stagnant wages, long hours and rising living costs, and are urging passengers to check travel information in advance and prepare for possible disruption.

With the festive season traditionally marked by heavy travel as people visit relatives or go on holiday, any widespread disruption could affect tens of thousands of passengers across Europe.

At London Heathrow Airport, more than 130 cabin crew employed by Scandinavian Airlines Services and based at the airport have announced strike action on December 22, 23, 24 and 26. The walkouts are expected to impact flights to and from Scandinavia. The dispute centres on pay, with workers saying the proposed increase does not keep pace with inflation. The Unite union has said some crew members have resorted to using food banks when arriving in Scandinavia because they cannot afford meals before returning to the UK.

Disruption is also expected at London Luton Airport, where around 200 check-in and baggage handling staff working for easyJet plan to strike over pay. The action is scheduled from 3 am on December 19 to 3 am on December 22, and again from December 26 to 29. easyJet has said it will work with partners to limit the impact on passengers.

In Spain, airport baggage handlers are staging rolling strikes throughout December, taking place between 5am and 9am every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday until the end of the year. Airports affected include Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca and Tenerife South, among others, with delays likely during peak travel times.

Under UK regulations, airlines must compensate passengers if flights arrive more than three hours late due to issues within the airline’s control, though delays caused by strikes or other extraordinary circumstances may not be eligible. Travellers are advised to monitor airline and airport updates closely, allow extra time for journeys and carry essential items in case of prolonged delays during the Christmas period.

By Tamilla Hasanova