Tuesday, July 9, 2024
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Planning a trip to Paris for the Olympics? Be aware of potential strikes across Europe that could affect travel routes. Here’s how to prepare for a smooth trip.
Strikes across Europe are expected to disrupt travel plans for those heading to the Paris Olympics. With airport strikes in Italy, potential transport strikes in the UK and Scotland, and ongoing disruption in Turkey and France, travellers need to remain vigilant. Understanding the strike landscape, from air traffic control issues to public transport disruptions, is essential to ensuring a smooth journey to the world’s most anticipated sporting event.
Italy: Airport Staff Strike
Planning to travel to Paris via Italy? Be prepared for possible disruption at airports. Airport staff across Italy went on strike on July 5, and further disruptions are expected at Milan Linate and Bergamo Orio al Serio airports on July 21 from 1pm to 5pm. However, strikes are banned from July 27 to September 5, making late summer travel a little smoother.
UK: Gatwick strikes postponed
Planning to fly through London Gatwick on your trip to Paris? You may find relief after planned strikes were temporarily postponed. Originally scheduled for July 12-14 and July 18-21, around 300 security and passenger services staff were due to strike over pay. The postponement may make travel easier, but further action is still possible during the busy summer holidays if the disputes are not resolved.
Scotland: Possible airport strikes
Planning to travel via Glasgow or Aberdeen on your trip to Paris? Be aware that union members have voted to strike. Although dates have not yet been set, security at these airports could be disrupted from mid-June if wage disputes are not settled.
Türkiye: Air Traffic Controllers Strike
Planning to add Turkey to your Paris itinerary? Note that air traffic controllers at Antalya Airport are on strike over pay and working conditions. The strike, which affects around 50% of incoming and outgoing flights, is expected to last until July 14, potentially affecting flights connecting to Paris.
France: Strike on highways and airports
Are you planning to travel to Paris by car or use French airports during your trip to the Olympics? Be prepared for possible delays. The workers of the southern French highway (ASF) and the Vinci motorway have started strikes due to staffing issues. In addition, Paris airports may face strikes on July 17, a few days before the start of the Olympics, which could lead to delays in baggage handling and check-in at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. The workers are demanding fair remuneration.
Paris Olympics: Possible transport strikes
Are you planning to travel within Paris during your trip to the Paris Olympics? The CGT-RATP union has announced a strike from February 5 to September 9, which could affect the bus and metro network in the Ile-de-France region, including during the Olympics. However, a bill recently passed by the French Senate aims to ban transport strikes during major events and impose advance warnings and minimum service obligations. The bill, which is awaiting approval by the French National Assembly, is facing opposition but aims to reduce disruption.
Netherlands: Public transport strikes in September
Planning to visit other parts of Europe after your trip to Paris for the Olympics? Be aware of a public transport strike in the Netherlands’ largest cities on September 12. Further strikes may occur, affecting services in Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam.
Travel Tips and Compensation
While you’re traveling to Paris for the Olympics, be aware of potential strikes and plan accordingly. Check the status of your flight and train regularly, and know your rights regarding rebooking and compensation if your trip is disrupted. By being prepared, you can minimize the impact of strikes on your Olympic experience.
Tags: european travel strikes, european travel strikes, france travel news, london gatwick airport, olympics travel warning, paris olympics, scotland travel news, travel industry, travel news, olympics trip, turkey travel news