New Strikes Hit Europe, Disrupting Transportation

A wave of strikes has recently disrupted transportation services across Europe, primarily initiated by the European Trade Union Confederation. Air traffic controllers in Spain, Greece, Portugal, and Italy have walked out in protest against austerity measures and rising unemployment.

Countries like Belgium, Germany, and France are also expected to join these industrial actions. The strikes, which began at midnight in Spain and Portugal, have resulted in numerous flight cancellations and rescheduling. Italy’s transport workers are set for a four-hour national strike, though airlines expect minimal disruption from it.

In Greece, a 24-hour general strike has closed the nation’s airspace, grounding all domestic and international flights. This protest against government-imposed austerity measures has also halted most rail services, isolating Greece further.

In response to similar labor disputes, Brittany Ferries has suspended all service from Portsmouth and Plymouth to France and Spain indefinitely, advising passengers to seek alternative travel and offering refunds for unused tickets.

The strikes have notably influenced travel behavior as well. Skyscanner reported a 13% traffic increase on its German site as travelers searched for alternative flights amidst the Lufthansa pilots’ strike. An 11% rise on the French site followed the French air traffic control strike, illustrating the demand for alternative travel options.

Airlines have condemned the French air traffic control strike for its significant impact on travelers and have called on the European Commission to take immediate action to address the disruptions stemming from these ongoing strikes.

Overall, the coordinated strikes across Europe have led to widespread travel chaos, affecting thousands of passengers and prompting urgent calls for intervention to alleviate the situation.