Travelers in Europe are bracing for potential disruptions as a series of strikes are set to impact various sectors, including train services in the United Kingdom and air traffic control and public transport in Italy.
UK Train Drivers Strike
Train drivers who are members of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen union (ASLEF) are planning to strike over several days at the end of January and the beginning of February. The strike is expected to affect different lines on separate days:
- Jan. 30: Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Thameslink, South Western Railway, and SWR Island Line
- Jan. 31: Northern Trains and TransPennine Express
- Feb. 2: Greater Anglia, C2C, and LNER
- Feb. 3: West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, and East Midlands Railway
- Feb. 5: Great Western, CrossCountry, and Chiltern
There will be no strike action by ASLEF on Feb. 1 or Feb. 4.
Air Traffic Controllers and Public Transport Strike in Italy
Air traffic controllers in Italy are set to strike on Jan. 24 from 1 to 5 p.m., potentially causing delays and cancellations for all airlines operating to and from Italy during that time. On the same day, public transport workers will also commence a 24-hour strike, likely disrupting bus, tram, and subway services. However, train services are not expected to be affected by the strikes.
Travelers are advised to stay informed and plan accordingly, as strikes can lead to unexpected changes and disruptions. While negotiations may still prevent some strikes, the current economic crisis and cost-of-living pressures make the likelihood of industrial action high across the travel sector.
For those traveling during these dates, it's recommended to review insurance policies regarding strike coverage and understand your rights for compensation in case of flight delays or other disruptions.
