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Travel disruption warning as airport strikes hit Spain and air traffic control action looms

Madrid - Alicante /9 April 2026

Passengers travelling to Spain are being warned of potential disruption due to ongoing airport strikes, alongside fresh concerns over possible air traffic control (ATC) action later this month.

Industrial action is already affecting multiple airports across Spain, including major hubs such as Alicante-Elche Airport, Madrid-Barajas Airport and Barcelona-El Prat Airport.

Ongoing airport staff strikes

Ground handling staff have launched strike action over pay and working conditions, with walkouts taking place on multiple days each week.

The action includes stoppages on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at key times throughout the day, potentially impacting departures and arrivals.

Airports across the country — including Malaga, Palma de Mallorca and Valencia — are affected, raising concerns of delays and longer waiting times for passengers.

Air traffic control strike threat

In addition to the current disruption, reports indicate that air traffic controllers in Spain could stage rolling strikes later in April, particularly in major airspace hubs such as Madrid and Barcelona.

While not yet confirmed nationwide, any ATC action could have a wider impact, potentially affecting flights across Europe, not just those landing in Spain.

What travellers should expect

Passengers travelling during this period may experience:

Flight delays or schedule changes
Longer queues at airports
Disruption at peak travel times

Despite the strikes, minimum service levels are expected to be maintained, meaning most flights will still operate.

Advice for UK travellers

Airlines are advising passengers to:
Arrive early at the airport
Check flight status before travelling

Allow extra time for connections

The disruption comes during a busy travel period following Easter, with Spain remaining one of the most popular destinations for UK holidaymakers.

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