What Spain’s general strike will mean for flights and holidays

Flights and trains across Spain could be affected by a nationwide general strike next week as workers across many sectors walk out.

The 24-hour strike will take place on 11 November after the country’s two largest unions, UGT and CCOO, agreed on a date to hold protests over housing issues.

This will be the first general strike jointly backed by Spain’s two largest unions in 14 years, and will take place just weeks before the country’s snap election.

The nationwide strike is expected to cause widespread travel disruptions, according to the Majorca Daily Bulletin, potentially impacting flights, public transport and local services.

While no specific walkouts have been confirmed, past general strikes in Spain have involved airport ground staff, air traffic controllers and airline cabin crews.

CCOO said representatives from aircraft company Airbus and hotel chain Ilunion were present at the joint assembly that called the strike.

The local publication also warned of severe disruptions on trains, including the Renfe and high-speed AVE lines, metros and local buses.

Major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona could see large demonstrations, which could block streets and impact traffic.

The UK government’s general travel advice for Spain states that demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities.

It asks British nationals to follow the advice of police and local authorities.

“While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder,” it added.

The strike comes off the back of a series of demonstrations caused by the eviction of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid who had lived in her home for seven decades.

The incident exposed mounting pressure on long-term tenants in major Spanish cities, where soaring rents, gentrification and a shortage of affordable housing have ignited social and political tensions.

UGT said in a statement that it has called a general strike for 11 November because the working class can no longer afford housing.

CCOO added that it has “placed housing at the heart of the demonstration, given the difficulties millions of workers face in paying rent or accessing affordable housing, and how this situation prevents many young people from becoming independent.”

The Independent has contacted Spanish airport group Aena and railway companies Renfe, SNCF and Iryo for comment.

Read more: I’m a train safety expert. Here’s why I would reconsider travel on Spain’s high-speed rail