easyJet passengers planning to fly to or from Spain should prepare for potential disruptions with strike action planned later this month.
Cabin crew members based in Alicante, Barcelona, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca are set to strike on June 25, 26, and 27, 2025.
Organized by the Unión Sindical Obrera (USO), the strike involves 657 flight attendants and could impact 21 aircraft.
This action may lead to flight delays or cancellations, especially at these key Spanish airports. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s happening, why, and how it might affect your travel plans.
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Why Are easyJet Cabin Crews Striking?
The USO union, representing easyJet’s Spanish cabin crew, is demanding better wages and improved working conditions. According to the union, Spanish flight attendants earn close to Spain’s minimum wage, which is significantly lower than their counterparts at other easyJet bases across Europe.
They claim a pay gap ranging from 30% to 200% compared to colleagues in countries like France or Germany.
With Spain’s cost of living rising sharply, the union argues that current salaries are insufficient to meet basic needs.
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Photo Credit: easyJet
Additionally, the crew seeks working conditions more aligned with those at other European bases, where benefits and schedules are reportedly more favourable.
This isn’t the first time easyJet’s Spanish workforce has taken action. Previous strikes, like those in 2022, also centred on pay and conditions, reflecting ongoing tensions.
The union hopes this strike will push easyJet to address these disparities and offer a fairer deal.
Impact on Flights
The strike affects easyJet’s operations at four major Spanish airports: Alicante, Barcelona, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca. With 21 aircraft potentially grounded, flights to and from these hubs are at risk of delays or cancellations.
The ripple effect could disrupt connecting flights or routes elsewhere in easyJet’s network, as aircraft may be out of position.
Popular summer destinations like the Balearic and Canary Islands, served heavily from these airports, could see the most significant impact.
easyJet has stated it intends to operate its full schedule as normal and is taking steps to minimize disruptions.
However, with hundreds of crew members participating, some schedule changes seem likely. Travelers should monitor their flight status closely using easyJet’s Flight Tracker tool, available on the airline’s website or app.
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Photo Credit: easyJet
Resolving the Dispute
On June 18, 2025, a conciliation meeting is scheduled between easyJet and the USO union, facilitated by Spain’s Interconfederal Mediation and Arbitration Service (SIMA).
This meeting aims to negotiate a resolution and potentially avert the strike. If an agreement is reached, the action could be called off, but travelers should stay updated, as outcomes remain uncertain.
easyJet has been formally notified of the strike and is engaging with the union to address concerns. The airline emphasizes its commitment to customers and hopes to avoid disruptions during the busy summer travel season.
How Can Travellers Prepare?
For those booked on an easyJet flight to or from Spain on June 25-27, 2025, here are some steps to stay ahead:
Check Flight Status Regularly: Visit easyJet’s website or app to monitor your flight via the Flight Tracker. Updates will be posted as the situation evolves.
Consider Rebooking Options: If disruptions seem likely, explore flexible rebooking policies. easyJet often offers options to change flights without fees during strike periods.
Stay Informed: Follow easyJet’s official communications and check news outlets for updates on the SIMA mediation outcome.
Plan for Delays: Allow extra time at the airport and have backup plans for connections or accommodations.
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Photo Credit: MarcelX42, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Looking Ahead
The outcome of the June 18 mediation meeting will be critical. A successful negotiation could cancel the strike, ensuring smooth operations.
However, if talks fail, travellers should brace for potential chaos at Spanish airports. The USO’s demands reflect broader issues in the airline industry. Quite often, low-cost carriers face pressure to balance competitive fares with fair employee compensation.
For now, passengers should stay proactive. Keep an eye on easyJet’s updates, and consider alternative travel arrangements if the flight itinerary is at risk.
By planning ahead, travellers can minimize the impact of this strike on their summer travel plans.
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