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UK families travelling for the Easter holidays could face delays as strike action threatens disruption at major Spanish airports during one of the busiest travel periods of the year
As the Easter holidays approach, thousands of UK families are preparing to jet off for a much-needed spring break, with Spain once again topping the list of favourite destinations for many. From the beaches of the Costa del Sol to the islands of the Canaries and Balearics, the annual getaway has become a staple for those looking to soak up sunshine during the school holidays.
However, Brits heading abroad this Easter are being urged to plan ahead, as disruption looms at airports across Spain during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. With millions expected to pass through terminals over Easter, strike action by airport staff could impact journeys for holidaymakers.
Strike action is set to hit Spanish airports as unions representing airport ground staff have announced industrial action at several major Spanish airports, raising concerns about delays and disruption. The workers involved carry out vital roles including baggage handling, aircraft turnaround, boarding and other key ground services.
The strikes are set to take place during Semana Santa, Spain’s busy Easter Holy Week, when travel demand is at its peak. The action has been called by major unions including UGT, CCOO and USO amid ongoing disputes over pay, working conditions and efforts to secure wider industry agreements.
Employees of Groundforce, a company operating at 12 airports across Spain, are due to begin an indefinite strike from Friday 27 March. Planned walkouts will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, across three daily time slots: 5am to 7am, 11am to 5pm, and 10pm to midnight.
In addition, other ground handling staff have scheduled 24-hour strikes on 28–29 March and again from 2–6 April. If no resolution is reached, further action could continue on a rolling basis throughout the year, potentially including weekends.
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What it means for travellers
The disruption is expected to impact some of Spain’s busiest airports, including Madrid-Barajas, Málaga-Costa del Sol, Alicante-Elche, Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona-El Prat. Popular island destinations such as Gran Canaria, Tenerife (North and South), Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Ibiza are also set to be affected, along with Valencia and Bilbao.
While Spanish law requires a minimum level of service to be maintained – meaning flights are likely to go ahead – passengers should still prepare for delays and longer waiting times.
With fewer staff available, aircraft turnaround times may increase, potentially causing knock-on delays throughout the day. Travellers could also face longer queues at check-in and bag drop, delays in receiving luggage and slower boarding and disembarkation processes.
Holidaymakers are being advised to check their flight status regularly via airline or airport websites and to allow extra time at the airport. Where possible, travelling with hand luggage only could help avoid delays linked to baggage handling.
With Easter travel demand already high, being prepared and allowing for extra time could make all the difference in ensuring a smoother start to your holiday.