Spain: Protesting Airbus workers have blockaded the CA-35 Highway near Cadiz April 14

Event

A protest by workers employed at the Airbus Puerto Real facility is currently blocking traffic on the CA-35 Highway, which links Puerto Real to Cadiz, the afternoon of April 14. The protest has been organized to denounce plans to potentially close the Airbus factory, which would see around 500 employees retrenched. Protesters have erected at least one barricade and set several small fires on the road and in the surrounding forested area. A significant police deployment has been reported on the highway; traffic has been restricted in both directions between Avenida Argentina and Puente Carranza. Firefighters are also on the scene; the forest fire appears to have been contained.

Localized disruptions will likely persist on the CA-35 and routes between Cadiz and Puerto Real. Increased congestion may also be experienced on the CA-33 Highway between San Fernando and Cadiz as commuters seek alternative routes. Although no violence has been reported, isolated clashes between police and protesters remain possible, particularly if police attempt to clear protest barricades.

Advice

Anticipate disruptions on the CA-35 highway through the late afternoon of April 14 and plan alternative routes if possible. Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate related disruption. Do not attempt to cross any protest barricades. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of a confrontation.