Spanish airport and train strikes in September

baggagehandlersA series of strikes in September have been called by three Spanish airport workers unions. The first will be on next Friday.

The strikes are hit Madrid airport for four days in September – 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th.

They are timed for twice during each of these days, from 4.30 am to 7.30 am followed by 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm.

Walkouts will also be staged at Barcelona, Malaga, Palma Mallorca and Alicante airports next month.

Holidaymakers are likely to feel the impact. Although the worst affected are expected to be easyJet and Vueling flights, delays could result for other airlines.

Flights from Portugal could also experience knock-on delays.

Union leaders said the action was due to a decision by handling firm Menzies Aviation Iberica to postpone a collective bargaining agreement despite ongoing negotiations.

Train strikes are also due next Friday to last for 24 hours. This was also the result of a similar delays in the negotiations taking place between the rail operator Renfe and workers unions.

Portugal

Portugal’s ANA airport operator has warned of the possibility of air traffic problems on Saturday Sunday, because of the strike announced by Groundforce, and advises passengers to check on flights via the internet.

 Groundforce workers this evening ratified the strike which is scheduled for this weekend and for which the unions foresee "strong support."

According to the union the strike this weekend also covers workers of the five temporary employment agencies providing handling services.