Now, Airport Strikes Across Italy, Spain, and Portugal in July 2025: What Ryanair, EasyJet, Volotea, Wizz Air, ITA Airways, and British Airways Passengers Need to Know

Friday, July 25, 2025

Travel disruptions are hitting some of Europe’s busiest airports this weekend, and if you’re planning to fly through Italy, Spain, or Portugal, you may want to brace yourself for potential delays. On July 26, 2025, a series of airport strikes by workers in these countries could throw a wrench into many travelers’ summer plans. Whether you’re heading to the sun-drenched shores of Italy, the vibrant streets of Barcelona, or the charming streets of Lisbon, the labor unrest from these airport strikes could impact everything from flight schedules to airport services.

Italy is at the center of this disruption, with workers from major airports like Milan Malpensa, Rome Fiumicino, and Venice gearing up for a four-hour strike. But it’s not just Italy feeling the pressure – in Spain, budget airline Volotea’s crew is walking out, and Portugal’s airport workers are preparing for a series of strikes throughout the summer.

While the strikes are aimed at improving working conditions and securing better pay and contracts, they could cause headaches for thousands of travelers trying to make their way to popular European destinations. This means delays, cancellations, and longer wait times are all likely, especially during peak travel hours. If you’re heading to one of these destinations or connecting through these airports, staying informed and knowing what to expect can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll dive into what the strikes mean for travelers, which airlines are most likely to be affected, and, most importantly, how you can prepare to ensure your trip isn’t derailed by labor unrest. Read on for expert tips and the latest information so you can travel with confidence despite the strikes.

The Causes Behind the Strikes

The strikes set to impact airports across Italy, Spain, and Portugal are the result of ongoing labor disputes involving airport workers. These workers, including baggage handlers, security staff, and ground personnel, are calling for better working conditions, improved pay, and contract renewals. In a post-pandemic world where the aviation sector has seen a surge in passenger numbers, airport staff are increasingly voicing concerns about the pressures of their jobs.

In Italy, workers will stage a nationwide strike for four hours on July 26 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM local time, causing delays and cancellations across major airports like Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, and Venice. In Spain, the strike primarily affects Volotea airlines, with staff members walking off the job during the same time frame. Meanwhile, Portugal will see disruptions at airports such as Lisbon and Porto due to a strike by Menzies Aviation employees, which will last from July 26 to July 29, and will be repeated during subsequent weekends in August.

These strikes are primarily driven by workers seeking improvements in their working conditions and employment contracts. With ongoing concerns about the safety and wellbeing of staff members, these labor actions highlight the need for better recognition of the essential roles that airport personnel play in the smooth running of aviation.

Which Airlines Are Most Affected?

If you’re planning to travel through Italy, Spain, or Portugal in the coming days, it’s essential to be aware of which airlines are likely to be impacted by the strikes. The strikes will predominantly affect low-cost carriers, as well as several major international airlines.

Italy:

In Italy, the strikes will affect a variety of airlines flying in and out of major airports. Travelers flying with the following airlines should be particularly aware of potential delays and cancellations:

RyanairEasyJetWizz AirVoloteaTUIBritish AirwaysITA Airways (Italy’s national carrier)

Given that Ryanair and EasyJet are two of the largest budget airlines in Europe, the impact of the strikes will likely be widespread, affecting both domestic and international flights. Major airports such as Milan Malpensa, Rome Fiumicino, Venice, and Naples will see substantial disruptions. It’s highly recommended that passengers check their flight status ahead of time on the airlines’ official websites for the latest updates.

Spain:

In Spain, the strike is mainly focused on Volotea, a Spanish budget airline that operates across more than 100 European destinations. The staff of Volotea will participate in the strike on July 26, potentially affecting flights to and from Spain. Travelers with flights booked with Volotea should monitor the airline’s website for any cancellations or rescheduling notices.

Portugal:

In Portugal, the strike will impact airport services provided by Menzies Aviation (formerly known as Groundforce). This strike, which will begin on July 26 at midnight and end on July 29, will affect several airports, including Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Funchal, and Porto Santo. The strike will focus on ground handling services such as baggage handling, check-in assistance, and aircraft servicing, which may result in long delays and possible flight cancellations for travelers flying through Portugal. Additional strikes are planned for the weekends in August.

How Will These Strikes Affect Travelers?

The strikes are likely to cause widespread disruptions, particularly during peak travel hours. Here’s what travelers should expect:

1. Flight Delays and Cancellations

Since the strikes are scheduled during peak hours, many flights will be delayed or canceled due to the lack of available ground staff to assist with check-in, security, and boarding. The strike’s timing, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, coincides with the busy afternoon and evening travel window, meaning that travelers flying during these hours should expect delays. While some flights may operate normally, it’s highly likely that many flights will be impacted.

2. Longer Wait Times at the Airport

With a reduced number of staff available to process passengers, airport terminals may experience longer-than-usual wait times for check-in, security clearance, and baggage collection. Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport early to allow extra time for processing.

3. Airport Service Disruptions

The strikes will also affect other airport services, such as baggage handling, boarding, and security checks. With fewer personnel available, travelers may face challenges in getting through the airport smoothly. Additionally, some services, like lounges and information desks, may have reduced hours or be closed altogether.

What Can Travelers Do to Minimize Disruptions?

While the strikes are outside of travelers’ control, there are several steps you can take to minimize the impact on your trip. Here are a few key tips for navigating the disruptions:

1. Check Flight Status Regularly

Before heading to the airport, make sure to check the status of your flight on your airline’s official website. Many airlines will post updates on delays and cancellations as soon as they become aware of the situation. Signing up for real-time notifications from your airline can keep you updated on any last-minute changes.

2. Arrive Early

Given the likelihood of delays and longer processing times, it’s crucial to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight’s departure time, especially if you are flying internationally. This will allow you to account for any delays at check-in, security, or baggage claim.

3. Consider Alternative Routes

If you have flexibility in your travel schedule, consider adjusting your travel plans to avoid the strike window. For example, try to book flights early in the morning or late in the evening, when the strikes may have less of an impact. Alternatively, you could explore flying through other nearby airports that are less likely to be affected by the strikes.

4. Know Your Rights

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, travelers are entitled to compensation in cases of flight cancellations or significant delays, especially if the disruption is due to airline or airport worker strikes. If your flight is canceled or delayed by more than 3 hours, you may be entitled to financial compensation or rebooking options. Make sure to keep all receipts and flight records as evidence when filing a claim.

5. Prepare for Longer Wait Times

With airport staff shortages, expect longer wait times for check-in, baggage claim, and security checks. Pack your patience, and be prepared for delays. It may also be wise to pack some snacks and entertainment for the wait, especially if you are traveling with children or elderly passengers.

What About Compensation and Refunds?

If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed due to the strikes, you may be entitled to compensation or a refund. The European Union’s Regulation 261/2004 provides travelers with certain rights in the event of cancellations or long delays caused by strikes. Passengers flying with EU carriers, or those flying to and from EU airports, may be eligible for compensation ranging from €250 to €600, depending on the flight distance and delay time. Airlines are also required to offer passengers the option to be rebooked on alternative flights or to receive a full refund if the flight is canceled.

Travelers should contact their airline directly to discuss compensation options and ensure they are aware of their rights.

Conclusion: Preparing for Travel Disruptions in Southern Europe

For those planning to travel through Italy, Spain, or Portugal in late July 2025, these strikes are an important consideration. While the strikes are unfortunate, they also provide an opportunity to understand the broader issues affecting the aviation sector and the need for better working conditions and fair compensation for airport staff.

By staying informed, arriving early, and knowing your rights, you can minimize the impact of the disruptions and ensure a smoother journey. Keep an eye on official airline and government websites, such as those of the Italian Ministry of Transport, Spanish Ministry of Transport, and Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority, for the latest updates on the strikes and any further developments.

While strikes may be frustrating, they’re a reminder of the importance of the people who make air travel possible, and with the right preparation, you can still enjoy your travels to these iconic destinations in Southern Europe.