Travelers Warned of Major Disruptions as Strikes Hit Spain and Italy
Transportation workers in both countries are preparing to strike, potentially impacting trains, flights, and ground travel.
Travelers heading to or within Spain and Italy this week may encounter significant disruptions due to planned strikes affecting various forms of transportation.
In Spain, train drivers represented by the SEMAF union are set to strike for 24 hours on Thursday, October 29. This action is expected to impact services operated by Renfe, Spain's national passenger rail company. According to SEMAF, the strike is prompted by concerns over railway safety, working conditions, and unfulfilled commitments.
Renfe stated that minimum service requirements will ensure some trains continue to operate, with 73% of high-speed and long-distance trains, and 65% of medium-distance trains scheduled to run. The company maintains it has fulfilled its obligations under a February agreement aimed at improving the rail system, including additional hiring and train maintenance. Renfe expressed regret that the strike call could affect thousands of travelers. Additional disruptions in Spain could occur Friday, October 30, as drivers for Ouigo, another high-speed rail operator, plan their own 24-hour strike over working conditions.
Meanwhile, Italy is bracing for a nationwide general strike on Friday, October 30, which could affect trains, flights, and other transportation services. Rail workers are scheduled to strike from 9 p.m. Thursday through 8:59 p.m. Friday. Ground-handling workers at Florence and Pisa airports are also planning a separate 24-hour strike. The USB union cited reasons for the strike including concerns over the cost of living, wages, pensions, and opposition to increased military spending.
The potential for widespread cancellations and delays has led some tourists to reconsider their travel plans. Online forums have seen travelers questioning whether to reschedule trips, with advice varying from checking for guaranteed service lists to avoiding the uncertainty altogether. Some travelers have suggested that while strikes can be disruptive, they do not inherently make travel unsafe.