Collapse in the midst of the holiday season gripped Europe due to a large-scale strike of transport workers across the continent

A wave of strikes by transport workers has swept across Europe. The situation is being exacerbated by the fact that it is the height of the holiday season, when millions of tourists go on trips to various parts of the world.

Many transport workers, from pilots to security guards, are taking part in the protests. Their demands are tough: better working conditions and higher wages, Traveller writes.

It is noted that the strike of transport workers has caused a real transport collapse in Europe, as traffic between many countries has been hampered.

Against the backdrop of strikes against low wages and working conditions, here are the dates you should pay attention to before planning your holiday in Europe

When and where transport workers strike in Europe

UK

London Heathrow, the busiest airport in Europe, will be affected by the strike from 25 to 27 May. The airport itself will not be closed, but due to the extreme conditions, there may be delays in its operation, so passengers are advised to arrive at the airport in advance and check the latest flight information.

"On the days of the strike, passengers will be allowed to carry only two pieces of hand luggage through security," travellers are warned.

Spain

Spanish transport workers are planning several waves of protests, namely: from 22 to 26 May, 29 and 30 May, and 1 and 2 June.

In particular, the Spanish pilots' union (SEPLA) is calling for protests against the order of the Spanish Ministry of Transport, which enacted a law requiring at least 90% of flights to be operated despite strikes, regardless of protests.

It is expected that other Air Europa employees and pilots of other airlines may consider joining the strike, which could significantly hamper air travel in Spain. Tourists are warned about possible disruptions in the transport network.

Italy

In Italy, the aviation sector will be joined by public transport workers - buses, trams, and subways. As a result, there may be difficulties in travelling within Italy. On May 26, a round-the-clock strike of transport workers is scheduled.

On June 4, airport ground operators will hold a nationwide strike. The reason for the strike is low salaries and dissatisfaction with labour contracts, which have remained unchanged for years without any increase in pay or working conditions.

France

Air traffic controllers and employees of the country's national railway operator have announced a new nationwide day of protests on June 6, 2023, ahead of the French National Assembly meeting on June 8.

The functioning of air and road transport across the country is under threat. The reason is well known, as the French have long been protesting against the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64 years.

Advice on the transport strike in Europe:

• Anyone affected by the inconvenience of the strike is provided with assistance at airports;
• In case of flight cancellation, tourists can choose between a refund, re-routing or return;
• Those who are notified of flight cancellation less than 14 days before the scheduled departure date are entitled to compensation;
• Additional compensation in the amount of 250 to 600 euros (depending on the distance of the trip) is available to those whose flight is delayed by three hours or more.