Spain is set for a 24-hour nationwide general strike on 11 November, and British holidaymakers due to travel around that date should be ready for possible disruption to flights, trains and city transport. There is still time to prepare, and travellers have sensible protections if plans go awry.
Below, we set out what is known so far about Spain general strike flights, which rail and city services could be affected, and the simple steps that will help your trip run smoothly.
What’s happening on 11 November
The strike has been called jointly by UGT and CCOO, the country’s two biggest trade unions. According to The Independent, it will be the first general strike backed by both unions together in 14 years.
The walkout is a protest over housing. Rents in Spain’s big cities have climbed sharply, and a shortage of affordable homes has fuelled growing anger. Demonstrations gathered pace after an 87-year-old woman in Madrid was evicted from the home she had lived in for seven decades.
UGT said it called the strike because working people can no longer afford somewhere to live. The action also comes just weeks before Spain’s snap election.
Spain general strike flights: which services could be hit?
At this stage, no specific walkouts have been confirmed, so it is too early to say which flights or routes may be affected. In previous Spanish general strikes, however, airport ground handlers, air traffic controllers and cabin crew have all taken part.
CCOO said representatives from aircraft maker Airbus and hotel group Ilunion attended the joint meeting at which the strike was called.
The Majorca Daily Bulletin has warned of widespread travel disruption. Services that could feel the impact include:
- Flights and airports, if ground staff, controllers or crew join the action
- Mainline trains, including Renfe services and the high-speed AVE network
- Metros and local buses in towns and cities
- Road traffic in major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, where large demonstrations could block streets
Because the strike is nationwide, holidaymakers on the islands as well as the mainland should keep an eye on updates. The Independent has asked Spanish airport operator Aena and rail firms Renfe, SNCF and Iryo for comment, so further detail may follow.
Demonstrations and staying safe
The UK government’s general travel advice for Spain warns that protests and marches can begin at short notice, especially in cities. It asks British nationals to follow instructions from police and local authorities.
The advice notes that most demonstrations are peaceful, although unrest cannot be ruled out. Its guidance for anyone close to a protest is clear:
“Be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder.”
If you are on a city break in Madrid or Barcelona that day, it makes sense to plan sightseeing away from main squares and to allow extra time to reach stations or the airport.
Your rights if your flight is cancelled or delayed
Under UK and EU passenger rules, known as UK261 and EU261, airlines must generally offer a choice of a refund or an alternative flight if they cancel. Which rules apply depends on your route and airline. During long delays, airlines should also provide meals and, where needed, accommodation.
Whether extra cash compensation is payable depends on the cause of the disruption, so keep boarding passes, receipts and any messages from your airline. Avoid cancelling a flight yourself before the airline does, as you could lose your right to a refund.
Package holidaymakers have an extra layer of protection. When flights and accommodation are booked together as a package, the tour operator is responsible for the whole holiday and should help rearrange travel if something goes wrong. That saves you chasing airlines and hotels separately.
Why it matters for UK travellers
Spain is one of the most popular destinations for British holidaymakers, from autumn city breaks to winter sun in the Canaries and on the Costas. A one-day strike is unlikely to derail most holidays, but a little preparation now can spare you stress later.
Before you travel:
- Check with your airline or tour operator in the days before departure and make sure your contact details are up to date
- Allow extra time to reach airports and stations on 11 November
- Confirm transfers, taxis and pre-booked rail journeys, and have a back-up plan
- Avoid tight connections on the strike day if you are able to change plans
Planning a trip? Spain remains a wonderful choice for late-season sunshine, food and culture, and booking a package adds peace of mind. Browse our Spain holidays or look ahead to winter warmth with our Canary Islands holidays.
FAQs
When is the Spain general strike?
The general strike takes place on 11 November and is due to last 24 hours. It has been called jointly by UGT and CCOO, Spain’s two largest unions, in protest at the country’s housing crisis. It is the first general strike backed by both unions together in 14 years.
Will flights to Spain be cancelled during the strike?
No specific walkouts had been confirmed at the time of writing, so it is not yet clear which flights will be affected. Airport ground handlers, air traffic controllers and cabin crew have joined Spanish general strikes before, so some disruption is possible. Check with your airline or tour operator before travelling.
Will trains and public transport run in Spain on 11 November?
The Majorca Daily Bulletin has warned of severe disruption to trains, including Renfe services and the high-speed AVE network, as well as metros and local buses. Large demonstrations in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona could also block streets. Allow extra time and confirm any transfers or rail bookings in advance.
