Expats in Spain are venting their anger on social media platforms over a series of planned strikes by some major airlines in July
Thousands of British expats make the yearly ‘pilgrimage’ back to the Uk for the summer. There are many reasons this tradition takes place. The most important reason is to escape the summer heat which this year is forecast to be the highest on record. Another rationale is to visit friends and relatives. Other grounds to temporarily ‘escape’ Spain are medical reasons, I personally have known people here in Spain who made their last trip to Blighty after having received a terminal cancer prognosis here in Spain- they basically left to die in the Uk!
That said, there is nothing more frustrating than being stuck in an airport for hours only to be told your flight is delayed or worse, cancelled due to strike action. After all, it is not our fault workers are in dispute with the airlines- ‘we’ just want to get home.
Almost 1,000 Gatwick staff, including ground handling, baggage handling, and check-in agents, are set to go on strike over pay. The union warns that significant disruptions, cancellations, and delays are “inevitable.”
If you’re flying during this time, keep a close eye on your flight status and expect updates from your airline. It’s crucial to stay informed before heading to the airport.
But that’s not all! British tourists may also face flight disruptions due to air traffic control strikes in Europe.
Which airlines will be affected? Well, major carriers such as easyJet, Ryanair, TUI, British Airways, Wizz, and Westjet are likely to be impacted.
Here’s what you should do if you’re affected:
1️⃣ Check your flight details before travelling to the airport on strike days. 2️⃣ Arrive two hours before a short-haul flight and three hours before a long-haul flight, unless instructed otherwise. 3️⃣ Be prepared for longer security queues due to the strikes. 4️⃣ Keep in touch with your airline for alternative flight options if your flight gets cancelled.
It’s important to know your rights as a passenger. While compensation may not be mandatory since the Gatwick workers aren’t employed by the airlines, affected passengers should be offered alternative flights. Airlines should also provide assistance, such as refreshments or accommodation if the delay is significant.
[Quote from Rocio Concha, Which? director of Policy and Advocacy] “Airlines are aware of the potential disruption, so they must communicate effectively with passengers and provide early options for refunds or rerouting – even if it means booking seats on flights operated by other carriers. They should also offer assistance, including refreshments or accommodation, based on the length of the delay.”
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