These strikes are classified as “extraordinary circumstances”, meaning EU261 compensation is unlikely, though airlines must still provide meals, hotels, and rebooking if you’re stranded.
Major airport strikes in Spain are ongoing and severe, with Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) and Palma de Mallorca (PMI) facing indefinite walkouts that began on 4 August 2026.
These strikes are causing widespread disruption across check‑in, baggage handling, boarding, and flight coordination, especially during peak summer travel.
🇪🇸 What’s happening right now
Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) An indefinite strike by 1,179 Groundforce workers is underway, affecting airlines such as Air Europa, Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, United, Qatar Airways, Etihad, SAS, Jet2.com, and more.
Impact includes long queues, baggage delays, slower aircraft turnaround, and potential flight disruptions.
Spain’s Ministry of Transport estimates up to 2 million passengers and 11,600 flights could be affected through September. Minimum service levels are set at 35%–80%, depending on route.
Palma de Mallorca (PMI) A parallel indefinite strike by 600 Swissport workers is also in effect.
Affected airlines include Condor, TUI, Air Canada, Sunclass, Etihad, Alba Star, TAP Air Portugal. No minimum service levels have been published yet, increasing uncertainty for travelers.
How this affects travelers
Expect check‑in delays, baggage issues, long queues, and possible flight cancellations or reduced capacity.
Disruption is not uniform — airlines using other ground-handling companies may experience fewer issues.
These strikes are classified as “extraordinary circumstances”, meaning EU261 compensation is unlikely, though airlines must still provide meals, hotels, and rebooking if you’re stranded.
