Spain: Unionized Ryanair staff announce an extension of a nationwide strike until Jan. 7 /update 3

Event

Unions representing Ryanair (FR) staff announced their intention to extend an ongoing nationwide strike until Jan. 7, 2023. The purpose of the action is to demand improvements in pay and work conditions. The current round of strikes was due to end July 28; union officials have stated their intention to renew the strike Monday-Thursday every week through Jan. 7, claiming Ryanair officials are refusing to negotiate with them and denouncing disciplinary proceedings against some striking staff members. Unless averted, the strike will likely prompt disruptions at the 10 Spanish airports served by Ryanair, including Madrid (MAD), Malaga (AGP), Seville (SVQ), Alicante (ALC), Valencia (VLC), Barcelona (BCN), Girona (GRO), Santiago de Compostela (SCQ), Ibiza (IBZ), and Palma de Mallorca (PMI).

As of Oct. 28, an additional strike by some baggage handlers and other ground staff was called off. This action had been announced Oct. 27, despite their union not supporting it, and would have impacted a further 13 airports.

Resulting cancelations and delays could extend several hours after each strike period ends as the carrier moves to reposition aircraft and resolve any passenger backlogs. The action could be suspended or canceled at any time should negotiations between union leaders and management prove successful.

Advice

Confirm flights if booked to fly on Ryanair to or from Spain through January 2023. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Consider alternate arrangements for critical travel.

Resources

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