Major destinations in Europe like the UK, France, Türkiye and Italy have recently experienced travel strikes. Travellers planning a trip to Europe this summer should be aware of potential disruptions, including flight cancellations, delays, public transport strikes, and all kinds of hindrances across the continent.
Some strikes in Europe are unplanned, while others are scheduled. It is essential to be prepared for potential disruptions during your Eurotrip. Here’s a breakdown of potential travel strikes across Europe in the coming months.
2024 summer travel strikes in Europe: UK, France, Ireland, Türkiye, Italy and the Netherlands
Türkiye
Air traffic controllers are striking for better pay and working conditions, causing delays at Antalya Airport. Expect a work-to-rule strike impacting approximately 50 percent of arrivals and departures until July 17.
Ireland
Ireland’s flag carrier, Aer Lingus, has faced over 400 flight cancellations up to July 7. The pilots are on an indefinite ‘work-to-rule’ strike, which means that flights will operate only within scheduled hours, with no changes accepted. Passengers receive updates via text or email, but it is best to check your flight status before catching any Aer Lingus flight.
Netherlands
A public transport strike is confirmed for September 12 in major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. More strikes are anticipated.
France
The 2024 Olympics in Paris will be affected by anticipated strikes and disruptions.
The Métro, tram, bus and other public transport services in Paris will experience disruptions due to a strike by the CGT-RATP workers union. However, the French Senate might enact a law allowing strike bans for major events like the 2024 Olympics.
UK
London’s Gatwick Airport faces delays due to a strike by over 300 security and passenger service staff over pay concerns from July 12-14 and July 18-21. Baggage screening and passenger assistance services will be the most affected. More strikes may occur this summer if the dispute is unresolved. Strikes are also planned at Glasgow and Aberdeen airports, though dates are yet to be announced.
Italy
Unionised staff at airports in Bologna, Crotone, Lamezia Terme, Milan, Reggio, Calabria, Rome and Venice will hold a strike on July 5, potentially disrupting flights at various times throughout the day.
(Feature image credit: Nigel J. Harris/Shutterstock)
Related: Know Before You Go: Conquer Crowds And Closures During 2024 Paris Olympics
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.