British holidaymakers jetting off for some autumn sun are facing severe disruption and travel chaos as indefinite strikes grip Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), the busiest airport in the Balearic Islands.
The industrial action, led by security staff demanding a significant pay rise, began on Monday, 1st October, and is already causing lengthy delays, cancelled flights, and immense passenger frustration. The timing couldn't be worse for the thousands of Brits on half-term breaks.
Root of the Disruption
The core of the problem lies with employees of the private security company Trablisa. These workers, responsible for crucial passenger and baggage screening, are protesting for a wage increase of approximately €600 (£520) per month. Negotiations with the company have so far failed to reach a resolution.
Strikes are planned for every day throughout October during three key peak periods:
- Morning: 6:45 AM to 8:45 AM
- Afternoon: 1:15 PM to 3:15 PM
- Evening: 5:45 PM to 7:45 PM
Impact on Travellers
The walkouts are causing a domino effect of delays. Passengers are being urged to arrive at the airport at least three to four hours before their flight is due to depart. Social media is flooded with images and videos of enormous queues snaking through the terminal, with some travellers reporting waits of over two hours just to get through security.
Major airlines, including easyJet and TUI, have been forced to issue warnings and cancel services. The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Spain, explicitly warning travellers about the industrial action and potential for last-minute disruptions.
Advice for Affected Passengers
If you are travelling to or from Palma de Mallorca this month:
- Contact your airline immediately to check your flight status before heading to the airport.
- Allow extraordinary amounts of extra time for your journey to the airport and for all check-in and security processes.
- Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers strike-related disruptions.
- Keep updated with the latest advice from your tour operator and the FCDO travel advice website.
With no end to the strikes in sight, the dream holiday for many has quickly turned into a logistical nightmare, underscoring the fragility of summer travel plans.
