When European airports and trains will face strike disruptions over the coming weeks
We always hope your travel will be trouble-free, but there are strikes and other disruptions across Europe to look out for in the coming weeks.
If you plan to travel during these dates and need advice, read our guide to insurance policies and strike coverage. Additionally, find out what you may be entitled to in terms of compensation if your flight is delayed or otherwise affected.
Here are the strikes to be aware of in the U.K. and Europe.
Related: The best credit cards for trip cancellation and interruption insurance — and what it actually covers
Heathrow Border Force strikes in the UK
When: April 11-14
Border Force workers — the staff members who carry out immigration controls and passport checks — based at London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) are set to walk out between April 11-14.
The strike involves members of the Public and Commercial Services Union, with 90% of its members voting in favor of the walkouts. The strike is over disputes regarding the U.K. government’s planned changes to schedules and shift patterns.
UK train and tube strikes
When: April 5-6 and 8, May 4
Train drivers working for the majority of the U.K.’s major train operators will stage various strikes during April and May.
Drivers working for Avanti West Coast, East Midlands, West Midlands and CrossCountry trains will strike April 5.
Strikes from drivers working for Chiltern, GWR, LNER, Northern and TransPennine will occur April 6.
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Additionally, drivers working for C2C, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express and South Western will strike April 8.
Coinciding with the tail end of the rail strikes, tube drivers on the London Underground are also set to strike April 8 and May 4.
Related: You are entitled to a refund for your canceled flight — even if the airline says you aren’t
France transport strike notice
When: Feb. 5 to Sept. 9
Staff members employed by the state-owned Ile-de-France bus and metro network commenced a seven-month strike notice period in early February over pay. If they don’t meet an agreement during this period, the strikes could likely take place during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Bottom line
One thing worth remembering about strikes is that nothing is certain, and it’s always possible that unions and employers will reach a deal.
However, the current economy can be challenging. Workers are struggling through the deepening cost of living, and travel companies are desperate to appease shareholders. The pressures on both sides of the fence seem unlikely to evaporate anytime soon.
The chances of more strikes across the travel sector are high. Keep an eye on these dates and plan accordingly.
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