Travel disruptions in Europe continue to affect passengers during the busy holiday season, as strikes in several countries are set to cause delays and cancellations to both flights and trains. With the rise in worker protests over pay and working conditions, travelers are advised to stay updated on strike dates and check for potential service interruptions.
Italy: Nationwide Transport Strikes in January
In Italy, commuters should prepare for significant disruptions, especially in cities, due to a nationwide public transport strike scheduled for January 10. The four-hour walkout called by the FAISA-CONFAIL union is likely to affect buses, trams, metro lines, and water buses. However, long-distance rail services and taxis are expected to remain unaffected. Additionally, delays and cancellations in Florence’s local train and tram services are anticipated on January 12 and 25, respectively, due to separate strikes.
France: Ongoing Rail Disruptions Over Christmas
Travelers in France have faced ongoing disruptions since December 11, with strikes affecting TGV high-speed trains, international routes, and regional TER services. Railway workers are protesting against the increasing privatization of regional rail routes by SNCF. While services impacted by these strikes are generally listed 48 hours in advance, passengers are encouraged to check train schedules before their travel.
Portugal: Airport Strikes Leading to Flight Delays
At Portugal’s airports, passengers can expect significant delays due to strikes by ground handling staff at Portway. These walkouts, planned over the Christmas and New Year period, are due to ongoing dissatisfaction over pay and conditions. Two 24-hour strikes are set for December 24-25 and December 31 to January 1, potentially causing extended delays to flight schedules.
United Kingdom: New Year’s Eve and January Train Strikes
In the UK, travelers on the West Coast Main Line will face disruptions due to strike action by Avanti West Coast train workers on December 31 and January 2. This action, related to a dispute over pay for work on rest days, will result in a reduced service. Affected passengers can either reschedule their travel between December 30 and January 4 or receive a full fee-free refund. Additional strikes are planned for every Sunday from January 12 to May 25, leading to more widespread disruptions.
Scotland: Edinburgh Fuel Tank Driver Strike Called Off
In Edinburgh, a potential strike by fuel tank drivers at the airport has been called off following successful negotiations over pay. The strike, which had raised concerns over significant disruption at the airport, will no longer go ahead, easing worries for travelers.
Spain: Ongoing Bus Strikes
A nationwide bus strike in Spain, which began in late November, continues to affect both local and long-distance services, particularly in the regions of Murcia and Andalusia. This ongoing strike, led by the Confederación General del Trabajo (CGT) union, demands improved working conditions for drivers and better retirement options.
Advice for Travelers
With multiple strikes scheduled across Europe, travelers should prepare for delays and cancellations, especially during the peak holiday season. It’s essential to check transport schedules ahead of time and explore alternative travel dates or routes where necessary. As always, passengers are entitled to compensation or rebooking if their flight or train is canceled or delayed.
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