Aug 8, 2023 - Travelers, beware, several strikes are happening at European airports right now that you might run into. Air traffic controllers are embroiled in disputes about pay, working hours, and staffing issues, and they're not the only ones.
The aviation industry is grappling with staff shortages and severe disruptions. Add reduced wages due to the cost of living crisis and pandemic pay cuts; workers are stressed. It's no surprise that strikes have been a frequent response, causing thousands of flights to be delayed or canceled in Italy, Belgium, Portugal, France, and beyond.
Strikes are likely to interfere with holiday plans. For instance, air traffic control strikes may jeopardize about a third of all European air journeys daily this summer.
Belgian pilots from Ryanair didn't just sit on their hands; they struck just like the Birmingham Airport staff. Pay disputes were at the heart of both shake-ups. You could feel the intensity heighten, especially in Birmingham, with severe delays that have been setting in since July 18.
Gatwick is another hot spot for strikes, with dates set throughout July and August. And some 1,700 easyJet flights are canceled over the next several months.
Portugal and Italy weren't given a pass, either. Strikes at Portuguese airports were scheduled indefinitely, spanning several weeks and holidays due to overtime disputes. Meanwhile, over in Italy, the air traffic controllers walked out last July 15, causing 1000 canceled flights.
Remember, airlines should step in to help if a strike delays or cancels your flight. There's a chance of compensation, too, depending on the details of your airline's conditions of carriage and travel insurance. But don't expect this if you book your flight after a strike's been announced.
Remember that a planned strike doesn't always become a reality — they're often used as leverage in negotiations. However, if you're traveling within the next few weeks, watch out for ongoing updates and prepare for potential disruptions due to these strikes.
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