Ground handling staff employed by Swissport, a key service provider at Palma de Mallorca Airport, are planning to strike on four separate days beginning July 28. The industrial action is expected to cause travel disruptions for passengers during the peak summer holiday season.
The strikes are scheduled for July 28, August 1, August 4, and August 8. According to Palma Airport, the workers intend to walk out during specific morning and evening periods on each strike day, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. and again from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Swissport workers are integral to passenger services, including check-in desks, baggage handling, and ramp operations. Airlines potentially affected by the action include TUI, Condor, TAP Air Portugal, Air Canada, Etihad Airways, Albastar, and DAT. While the airport anticipates delays rather than outright cancellations, passengers may experience longer queues at check-in and boarding gates, and potentially longer waits for luggage on the carousel.
Even airlines that utilize different ground handling services, such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Jet2, could face indirect effects. The airport noted that delays for flights served by Swissport might lead to localized congestion on the tarmac or minor delays at security control, although disruption for passengers of other airlines is expected to be minimal.
The CCOO trade union announced the action after Swissport reportedly failed to address the workers' demands for improved working and economic conditions, including salary adjustments. The union cited a lack of concrete commitments from the company during negotiations and the increased demands during the busy season as reasons for the strike. CCOO has stated that its "doors remain open for further negotiations," suggesting the possibility of the strikes being called off.
A spokesperson for Swissport Spain indicated that the company has been involved in constructive discussions with the unions and has presented a proposal they believe offers a solid basis for an agreement. They affirmed their commitment to good-faith dialogue.
In addition to the planned strikes, Palma Airport has also been experiencing long queues due to the new Entry/Exit System.