Airline Employees in Spain Strike, Affecting Ryanair Services - Airline employees in Spain staging a walkout against Ryanair
The ongoing industrial action by ground staff employed by Azul Handling, a subsidiary of Ryanair, is causing disruptions at numerous Spanish airports. The strike, which initially started and is scheduled to continue beyond Sunday, will take place every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until at least 31 December 2025.
The strike involves partial work stoppages during three daily time slots: early morning (5:00–9:00), midday (12:00–15:00), and late evening (21:00–23:59). This action is a response to demands for better working conditions and pay by the General Union of Workers (UGT).
Affected airports include major hubs like Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, and others. Travelers should expect possible delays and baggage handling issues and are advised to check flight status with Ryanair before traveling. While the strike may cause disruptions, so far only minor delays have been reported with no widespread cancellations.
In addition to the ongoing strike at Azul Handling, Menzies, another handling company that works for several airlines, has announced weekend strikes until the end of August. This action may continue to impact flights in Madrid and other major airports, as well as Mallorca, potentially every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until the end of the year.
Despite the strikes, the online displays of airport operator Aena show only minor delays. However, it is recommended that passengers traveling to and from Spain arrive at the airport earlier than usual due to potential longer luggage drop-off and security checks.
The UGT union has accused Azul Handling's management of violating strike laws. The duration of the strike is currently unknown, and it may continue to impact flights across Spain in the coming months. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed and check the status of their flight regularly.
- The community policy of Aena, the airport operator, should address the potential impact of strikes on travelers, providing clear and timely information about prospective flight delays and disruptions.
- Employment policies of Azul Handling and Menzies, in the face of ongoing industrial actions, need to be re-evaluated to ensure fair and equitable treatment of employees, addressing concerns over working conditions and pay.
- General-news outlets and lifestyle magazines should provide updates on the ongoing strikes at Azul Handling and Menzies, as well as associated travel disruptions, to keep readers informed about the impact on their future travel plans, including crime-and-justice aspects related to strike law violations and sports events that may be affected by the industrial actions.
