A wave of strikes is set to impact European aviation this Fall season. As summer fades away, disruptions in airlines and airports across Europe are still on the horizon.
Workers in Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal are gearing up for strikes in September, with easyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air likely to be affected. Here’s an overview of the upcoming industrial actions to watch out for if you have travel plans in the next few weeks.
In Italy, multiple airlines are expected to face disruptions due to strikes by airport ground staff and flight attendants this September. The initial strikes are scheduled for September 6, with easyJet staff at Catania Fontanarossa Airport and Swissport employees at Milan Linate Airport planning to walk out for 24 hours.
Simultaneously, Pisa International Airport and Florence Airport will witness a four-hour strike on the same day. Despite the planned disruptions, Wizz Air aims to minimize the impact of these strikes.
Moreover, airport handling staff at Milan Linate and Milano Malpensa Airport are set to strike for 24 hours on September 26, and security staff at Cagliari Elmas Airport will also join the industrial action on the same day.
In France, air traffic controllers are preparing for a strike on September 18–19 following failed pay negotiations with the Civil Aviation Authority. This strike could affect a significant number of flights, including those passing through French airspace.
The air traffic controller strikes are part of broader industrial actions against the 2026 budget proposed by Prime Minister François Bayrou. These strikes are anticipated to proceed even after an expected vote of confidence on September 8.
Travelers heading to France should stay informed as various unions are planning strikes that could impact public transport services. In Spain, Azul Handling baggage staff, a part of the Ryanair Group, will stage strikes over labor rights, affecting several airports across the country.
Ground staff represented by the Metallurgical and Related Industries Union (SIMA) are also in dispute with Menzies Aviation, demanding better pay and compensation. They plan to strike intermittently for the remainder of 2025, with scheduled actions throughout September and October.
Disruptions are foreseen at major airports in Portugal, including Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Madeira, and the Azores. Menzies has been approached for comments regarding the ongoing disputes and strikes.
