The past few years haven’t been the travel industry’s best. Demand for travel boomed, but capacity struggled to keep up which, among other factors, caused a summer of travel chaos for many.
2023 saw European workers standing up for their rights to fair pay and working conditions. For 2024, here’s what we know so far about the latest developments on Europe’s airport strikes and the possible impact on your travels.
Which airports in Europe have strikes?
At the time of publishing, there are, or have already been, strikes across the continent, including in the United Kingdom. These vary from terminal-specific security walkouts to nationwide strikes like those in France.
Strikes in Italy
Air traffic controllers have announced industrial action at several Italian airports. Staff employed by ENAV, the national air traffic control organisation, are scheduled to strike from 1 pm to 5 pm on Tuesday, November 12. At the time of writing (Tuesday, November 5), affected airports are set to include Rome Fiumicino, Bologna Marconi, Lampedusa, Naples International, Pescara, and Perugia. Baggage handlers are set to strike at Rome Fiumicino, Bologna and Catania on the same day, potentially causing delays for travellers collecting hold baggage.
Later in the month, on Friday 29 November, baggage handlers at Milan airport are planning to strike, as are WizzAir employees across Italy.
Strikes in France
At the time of writing (Tuesday 5 November), there is officially an ongoing strike in France as easyJet employees protest against the planned closure of the airline’s Toulouse hub.
The indefinite strike notice is in place until Monday 16 December, although no specific strike dates have yet been announced.
Nice city airport, French RivieraGetty Images
UK Airport strikes
2024 has seen travel disruption across the UK caused by a handful of strikes. However, at the time of publishing, no major airports are set to be affected in the coming months.
The UK airport strikes have the power to disrupt several holidays this year – here’s the latest on the walkouts
What should I do if there are airport strikes while I’m on holiday?
Airlines and operators are obliged to share the latest information if it affects your travels. When using an impacted airport or airline, check the latest flight information on the departure airport’s website and opt-in for email and text notifications to stay updated with all the latest news.