Upcoming flight and train strikes across Europe prompt advisories for travellers; details on disruptions and rights explained

Travellers planning trips across Europe in the coming weeks should prepare for potential disruptions as various sectors announce strikes. From airport ground staff to train operators, widespread industrial actions are expected to impact flights and railway services, predominantly in the UK and Germany.

In the UK, Heathrow Airport will face significant challenges as Border Force workers plan a strike from April 29 to May 2. This action could severely affect international arrivals, causing lengthy delays. The disruption does not end there, with a subsequent ‘work to rule’ strike slated for May 3-18. Moreover, Heathrow anticipates further troubles with a week-long strike involving nearly 800 staff members across different departments from May 7-13.

Passengers flying from London’s Gatwick Airport also face inconvenience as Dnata catering workers on easyJet and TUI flights strike multiple times from late April through mid-May. The strike, involving about 100 workers, threatens to escalate if pay disputes remain unresolved.

Meanwhile, the UK’s rail network will also experience disruptions. Although no national strike is announced, localized actions will occur. The London Underground has initiated an overtime ban that may lead to station closures, and members of the ASLEF train drivers’ union will strike on May 8, with an additional overtime ban from May 6-11 likely to cause further cancellations.

Across the Channel, Belgium’s Charleroi Airport warns of potential strikes by catering staff and baggage handlers in early May if their demands are not met. In France, the CGT-RATP union has declared a long-term strike notice affecting the Paris bus and metro network, potentially impacting the upcoming Olympic Games. However, recent legislative measures may mitigate these disruptions.

Germany sees a brighter outlook as Deutsche Bahn and the GDL train drivers’ union reached an agreement on March 25, ending months of strikes. This deal halts any further strike actions until at least February 2026. Similarly, Verdi union members at various German airports have called off their strikes following successful pay negotiations.

Travellers affected by these strikes are entitled to compensation or alternate travel arrangements under EU and UK consumer rights laws. It is advisable for travelers to stay informed about the latest strike actions and plan accordingly to minimize travel disruptions