Disruptions at Spanish airports due to ground staff walkout

Disruptions at Spanish airports due to ground staff walkout

In August 2025, ground handling staff at several Spanish airports will go on strike, causing potential chaos for millions of travellers. The strikes, called by the UGT union, will primarily affect key handling companies such as Azul Handling (serving Ryanair) and Menzies Aviation (serving multiple airlines).

The strikes at Azul Handling will commence on August 15, 2025, and continue every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until December 31, 2025. Only Ryanair flights will be directly affected, with potential delays, longer queues, and possible flight cancellations at up to 27 Spanish airports, particularly on peak August dates. The strikes will occur in three daily time bands: 5am-9am, 12pm-3pm, and 9pm-11.50pm.

Menzies Aviation strikes are planned for the last three weekends of August, affecting multiple airlines such as Emirates, British Airways, easyJet, and others at key airports like Barcelona, Malaga, Alicante, Palma de Mallorca, and Tenerife Sur. These strikes may also lead to disruptions, delays, and cancellations at these airports.

The strikes are primarily caused by several unresolved labor disputes. Key issues include overtime and work schedule disorganization, salary breaches and unpaid wages, job security and working conditions, and chronic understaffing. These grievances have prompted the UGT to call for strikes to push for better working conditions and more stable employment terms.

Barcelona-El Prat airport, which saw a record 5.54 million passengers pass through in July 2025, faces the most notable risk due to Ryanair's 15 per cent share of operations there. If an alternative flight is accepted, passengers may waive their right to refunds or further compensation. However, passengers affected by cancellations are entitled to a full ticket refund within seven days.

Passengers facing delays can claim compensation after five hours and may also recover costs for food, lodging, or extra transport incurred due to disruptions. In some cases, passengers may claim compensation of up to €600 per person, but airlines may cite "extraordinary circumstances" due to third-party strikes to avoid additional payouts.

The UGT union is accusing employers of imposing excessive overtime and docking pay when workers refuse. Menzies workers are claiming unpaid salaries, up to 4 months in some cases.

Travellers are advised to monitor their flights closely and to contact their airlines for updates. It is also recommended to arrive at the airport early to allow for potential delays.

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