Travellers warned of strike action over Easter break – Daily Business

Travellers heading to Europe over the next fortnight are being urged to check their flight itineraries and stay alert to potential delays, as several countries prepare for air traffic control (ATC) strikes that could disrupt travel plans across the continent.

The French rail union Sud Rail has also filed strike notices for multiple dates between April 17 and June 2, which will involve train controllers working for SNCF, the French national rail company. If they go ahead, there could be limited or no rail services on selected routes. 

Disruption is expected at Gatwick between Friday 18 April until Tuesday 22 April. Over 100 airport workers, including baggage handlers and flight dispatchers, employed by ground handling firm Red Handling, will join the industrial action.

Jessie Chambers, senior travel adviser at Global Work & Travel, said: “We’re seeing coordinated air traffic control strikes announced in France, Italy, and parts of Spain over the next two weeks, with further possible disruption in Germany and Belgium.

“This is likely to have a ripple effect across much of European airspace – even flights not landing in those countries could be delayed due to rerouting and congestion.

“Our advice to travellers is simple: double check your flight status before heading to the airport, allow extra time for connections, and consider travel insurance with disruption cover if you haven’t already.”

According to recent notices from EU aviation unions, key dates to watch include:

• France: Nationwide ATC strike planned on April 18–19 and April 25, with possible extensions.

• Italy: 24-hour national strike scheduled for April 19, affecting all major airports.
• Spain: Rolling strikes by air traffic controllers in Madrid and Barcelona from April 20–30.
• Germany & Belgium: Industrial action under discussion, no confirmed dates yet but disruptions are possible with short notice.

“These disruptions can be frustrating, but they don’t have to derail your entire trip. A few simple steps can make all the difference: download your airline’s app for real-time alerts, avoid tight layovers where possible, and always pack essentials in your carry-on in case of long delays,” added Chambers.

“If you’re travelling in or through Europe during the next two weeks, stay flexible, keep an eye on official updates, and have a backup plan, especially if your journey includes France, Italy, or Spain.”