Strike Watch 2026
The Disruption Forecast for European Travel
2026 is shaping up to be a volatile year for European travel. With major union contracts expiring in Portugal, Italy, and France, "strategic pauses" in transport are expected throughout the spring and summer. Don't let a cancellation strand you—forewarned is forearmed.
Disruption Status Board
Portugal
National TransportA general transport strike is looming for late May. This will affect Lisbon (LIS) airport ground handling and national rail services involved in the "Simplex" detailed negotiations.
Italy
Air Traffic ControlItalian ATC unions have announced specific "stop work" windows. Expect 4-hour delays at FCO and MXP. Flights overflying Italian airspace may also be re-routed.
France
SNCF (Rail)The " Olympic Hangover" continues with rolling rail strikes affecting TGV connections to Spain and the UK (Eurostar). Always have a flight backup for French train travel in 2026.
How to Bulletproof Your Trip
- •Book flights earlier in the day (morning flights are less likely to be cancelled).
- •Avoid connecting through hubs where strikes are confirmed (e.g. CDG in Paris).
- •Use "Price Alerts" to watch fares for alternative dates surrounding your trip.