Spain’s summer 2026 travel season is facing growing disruption risks as ongoing airport and air traffic control strikes continue across several popular tourist destinations.
The industrial action comes as millions of international travellers prepare to fly to Spain for the peak summer holiday period, raising concerns over delays, baggage disruption and operational pressure at major airports.
Air Traffic Control Strike Continues Through May
An indefinite strike involving air traffic controllers employed by private operator Saerco began on 17 April 2026 and has now been extended through at least 31 May 2026.
The dispute centres on staffing shortages, shift schedules, cancelled leave and working conditions.
The strike currently affects several Spanish airports including Seville, Jerez, Vigo, A Coruña, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, El Hierro, La Palma and Madrid-Cuatro Vientos.
Unions have warned the industrial action could continue into the summer season if no agreement is reached.
Major Tourist Airports Face Increased Pressure
Travel industry alerts have identified Palma de Mallorca, Málaga, Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid and Ibiza among the airports most at risk of operational disruption this summer due to high passenger volumes and ongoing staffing pressure.
Airports across the Canary Islands are also expected to face increased strain during peak holiday periods.
Although Spain’s minimum service rules are expected to prevent widespread flight cancellations, passengers may still experience delays, longer queues and slower baggage handling.
Ground Handling Disputes Continue
Separate disputes involving ground handling and baggage staff are also contributing to disruption concerns across Spanish airports.
Ground staff strikes first began in March 2026 and have affected airports including Madrid-Barajas, Barcelona-El Prat, Málaga, Alicante, Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Seville, Ibiza, Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.
Union representatives have warned that additional strike action may continue periodically throughout 2026 if negotiations over pay and working conditions fail.
Travellers Advised To Prepare For Delays
Travel experts are advising passengers travelling to Spain this summer to monitor airline updates carefully, arrive earlier than usual at airports and allow additional time for baggage collection and connecting flights.
Passengers are also being encouraged to check travel insurance coverage for delays and missed connections.
Additional Airport Disruption In Galicia
Separate from the strike action, Santiago de Compostela Airport in Galicia remains closed for runway resurfacing works until 27 May 2026, causing additional schedule adjustments for airlines operating in northern Spain.
The combination of staffing disputes, operational pressure and infrastructure works is increasing concerns that Spain’s aviation sector could face a challenging peak summer season as tourist arrivals continue reaching record levels.
