A NATIONWIDE strike in Spain is expected to disrupt travel across the entire country tomorrow – and it includes UK flights.
The industrial action will ‘bring the country to a complete standstill‘ as staff are set to walkout from airports, public transport, shops, restaurants and museums.
The shutdown will begin tomorrow morning as major trade unions in Spain stage a 24-hour walkout.
The strike is protesting the escalating housing crisis – and it will be the country’s first joint general strike in almost 15 years.
Flights across both mainland Spain and the Canary Islands are expected to see cancellations or delays.
Iberia has warned that journeys might be affected on November 11 and has put alternatives in place for those who experience disruption.
It adds that anyone travelling from a Spanish airport tomorrow should arrive earlier than usual with the strike causing delays at check-in, security and passport control.
However, the good news is that there’s a minimum flight service requirement in place.
Business Travel News Europe reported that there must be at least 57 per cent of international flights at Madrid and 56 per cent at Barcelona.
Passengers should still check for updates from their airline before travelling tomorrow.
Anton Radchenko, Aviation Expert and CEO of AirAdvisor, said :”If my flight were cancelled, my first question would be how the airline could get me there, rather than how quickly it could refund me. The original ticket price may not cover a replacement bought at short notice.
“If another airline can get you there significantly sooner, ask about that option rather than assume you must wait for your original carrier’s next flight.”
For anyone who is already in Spain and needs to stay overnight while waiting for replacement travel, Anton says travellers should ask the airline to arrange accommodation and meals.
If the airline can’t provide that, then passengers are advised to keep receipts for expenses.
Anton adds: “Those costs are separate from fixed compensation, and passengers should not abandon a legitimate expenses claim simply because they have been told the strike was outside the airline’s control.”
The strike won’t just affect flights – on the ground, public transport will be impacted including high-speed lines, the city metro, and buses.
However, the government has guaranteed that at least 72 per cent of the AVE and long-distance trains will operate on November 10-12, with 65 per cent of Renfe’s regional services set to run as scheduled.
For anyone already on holiday there at the time, the walkout could see some restaurants, museum and shops close.
If they’re not shut, the opening hours could be reduced to holiday hours.
There could be demonstrations in large cities, so monitor local media for updates and disruption.
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.