Spain Easter Travel Hit by Airport Strikes
Travellers heading to Spain over Easter are being warned of disruption as airport staff prepare to strike during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The action involves workers responsible for baggage handling, boarding and aircraft turnaround. With millions expected to travel during Semana Santa, even short stoppages are likely to affect airport operations across the country.
The industrial action has been called by unions including UGT, CCOO and USO, following disputes over pay and working conditions. Staff from Groundforce, which operates at 12 Spanish airports, plan an indefinite strike starting Friday 27 March. Walkouts are scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with stoppages taking place in several time slots across the day.
Other ground handling staff have announced 24-hour strikes on 28–29 March and again between 2 and 6 April. If no agreement is reached, further action could continue later in the year, including weekends. Airports expected to be affected include Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Alicante, Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Bilbao and several Canary Islands hubs, all of which handle high passenger volumes during holiday periods.
What to expect at Spanish airports
- Longer queues at check-in and bag drop
- Delays in baggage handling and boarding
- Slower aircraft turnaround times
- Possible knock-on delays across the day
Minimum service rules will remain in place, so flights are still scheduled to operate, though timing may vary.
Spain is still reachable over Easter, even with the disruption. Places like Andalusia, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands continue to see steady visitor numbers. Cities such as Seville and Málaga are preparing for Semana Santa, while coastal areas are already moving into the early spring season. Travelling may take more time, but plans do not need to be cancelled.