It’s a tough time to be working in the aviation industry. Faced with staff shortages and huge levels of disruption, many workers at airlines and airports are facing long, stressful hours and poor working conditions. And, thanks to the cost of living crisis and pandemic-era pay cuts, loads of them are doing it all for lower wages, too.
Needless to say, it’s no wonder that so many staff at airports and airlines have been going on strike. From Italy and Belgium to Greece and France, airports across Europe have seen thousands of flights delayed and cancelled by industrial action.
Strikes can, obvs, have a serious impact on your holiday, so it’s best to be as informed about them as possible. Read on for our guide to who’s going on strike in Europe right now, where and when those strikes will happen – and whether you need to worry about them.
Airport strikes in Germany
A 24-hour walkout by public-sector employees, as well as ground and security staff, will impact 13 German Airports today (March 10) including major hubs such as Berlin, Dusseldorf and Munich, according to euronews.
Frankfurt is Germany’s busiest airport, and the operator said that no passenger flights will depart today. Of the 1,116 scheduled, more than 1,000 have already been cancelled and delays are expected to affect journeys tomorrow, too. Berlin airport said all departures will be affected, and Hamburg said no departures would be possible at all today.
Around half a million people face travel disruption, and according to German Airports Association ADV, more than 3,400 flights are expected to be cancelled. Passengers due to depart today have been urged to contact their airline before heading to the airport.
Strikes at Belgian Airports
If you’re about to head to Belgium, listen up. On the 13th of every month until further notice (which, according to euronews, could last well into the spring), airport workers will continue to stage 24-hour strikes.
Employees, including ground handlers and security staff, are walking out in protest against pension reforms, wage freezes, longer working hours and austerity cuts to public services. Lots of disruption and cancellations are expected during these periods, and likely afterwards, so check your journey status with your travel provider.
What happens if your airline goes on strike?
If strikes cause your flight to be delayed or cancelled, the airline is usually obliged to help you and/or provide compensation. However, this often depends on the conditions of your airline – some airlines won’t cover strikes out of their control, such as airport or baggage handler strikes. Your compensation also depends on the extent of your travel insurance. These should both be easily accessed on either your airline or insurer’s website.
If you book your flight already knowing that a strike is set to take place (ie. it’s already been announced by the union), you are exceptionally unlikely to receive compensation. Before you book, be sure to check for any strike dates not just at your intended airline but also at departure and arrival airports.
Of course, it’s worth bearing in mind that the threat of a strike is exactly that: a threat. Strikes are primarily used as bargaining chips in negotiations between unions and employers, so there’s always the chance that both sides will come to an agreement before one actually takes place.
In any case, if your journey involves any of the above airlines, destinations and dates, be sure to keep an eye on your flight status and prepare for a more disrupted journey than expected.
ICYMI: This is the world’s most well-connected airport.
Plus: how to track down lost baggage and get compensation.
