European Strikes: How They May Affect Your Paris Olympic Trip Plans

As travelers gear up for the Paris Olympics, potential disruptions from strikes across Europe could impact travel plans. With airport and transport strikes spanning from Italy to the UK, Türkiye, and France, staying informed and prepared is essential for a smooth journey to this major event.

Strikes are set to affect various travel routes. In Italy, airport staff walked out on July 5, with further disruptions expected on July 21 at Milan Linate and Bergamo Orio al Serio airports. Fortunately, strikes are banned from July 27 to September 5, promising smoother travels later in the summer.

In the UK, strikes at London Gatwick Airport have been temporarily postponed. Initially scheduled for mid-July, these strikes involved around 300 security and passenger services staff demanding better pay. Although the postponement may ease immediate travel concerns, unresolved disputes could still lead to disruptions during the busy summer period.

Travelers flying through Glasgow or Aberdeen in Scotland should also be cautious. Union members have voted for strike action over pay disputes, potentially disrupting security processing at these airports from mid-June onwards.

In Türkiye, air traffic controllers at Antalya airport are on strike, affecting about 50% of arrivals and departures. This strike, set to continue until July 14, could impact connections to Paris.

France is also facing travel disruptions, with motorway and airport workers striking over staffing and bonus issues. Strikes are anticipated at Paris airports on July 17, just before the Olympics, potentially causing delays at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. Additionally, transport within Paris could be affected by a CGT-RATP union strike notice, impacting the bus and metro network during the games. A new bill aims to minimize such disruptions by banning strikes during major events and enforcing minimum service obligations, though it is still pending approval.

Travelers planning post-Olympic trips should be aware of a public transport strike in the Netherlands on September 12, affecting major cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam.

To navigate these potential disruptions, travelers should stay updated on strike developments, regularly check flight and train statuses, and understand their rights regarding ticket rebooking and compensation. With careful planning, it’s possible to minimize the impact of these strikes and ensure an enjoyable Olympic experience in Paris.