A BUSY UK train station is set to CLOSE for seven months for a major upgrade.
City Thameslink station in London has confirmed the next year closure, for a multi-million pound project to replace ten escalators.
City Thameslink station will close for seven months for a major upgradeCredit: Alamy
The closure will take place from May 17, 2027 until late December 2027.
Thameslink trains will continue to run as normal but will not stop at the station.
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Network Rail is recommending travellers to use Blackfriars as an alternative, which is around a six- minute walk away.
Lucy McAuliffe, Sussex Route Director for Network Rail, said: “We know closing City Thameslink is a significant change and we’re sorry for the disruption it will cause.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly. We have looked long and hard at every possible option and, although none of them are without impact, a single closure is the least disruptive and most efficient way to carry out this vital work.
“City Thameslink’s escalators are at the end of their operational life. By replacing them now we’re tackling the root causes of access disruption for passengers in one go.
During the closure all of the escalators will be replacedCredit: Alamy
“This means that when City Thameslink reopens in December 2027, customers will benefit from completely renewed escalators, designed to provide safer, more dependable and accessible journeys through this important station on our network.”
The current escalators have been at the station for around 35 years, but recent flooding damaged them.
The station, which opened in 1990, welcomes around 7.6 million people a year, as it is near popular attractions like St Paul’s Cathedral.
A full closure of the station was decided on instead of a partial closure for safety reasons.
STRIKES are hitting Portugal as soon as next month with disruption across the country – and it includes flights.
It comes after widespread demonstrations have swept across Europe over cost of living concerns.
Portugal is set to be hit by three strikes across November and DecemberCredit: AlamyEasyJet cabin crew in Portugal are set to strike in DecemberCredit: Alamy
One of the most major strikes when it comes to flights is by easyJet staff in December.
The airline’s cabin crew in Portugal will strike for the second time from December 19–23, with the last similar strike causing more than 400 flights cancelled.
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The industrial action is set to affect flights from busy airports including Lisbon, Porto and Faro.
From the UK, easyJet operates flights to Portugal from the likes of Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Gatwick, Luton, Southend, Manchester and Newcastle.
A spokesperson from the airline said: “We are extremely disappointed that SNPVAC is planning strike actions despite our willingness to continue a constructive dialogue.
“We had just started a conciliation process through the mediation of DGERT with the aim to reach an agreement to meet our employees’ requests and protect the sustainability of easyJet business in Portugal.
“The current union demands are unworkable especially given that our crew are already paid significantly above the Portuguese national average.”
Portugal could also face a general strike on 11 November which would coincide with a planned strike in Spain.
If the demonstrations go ahead at the same time it will be called an ‘Iberian general strike’.
Flights could be affected by the nationwide strikes in PortugalCredit: Alamy
It’s still under discussion who would take part but reports say it could be a ‘nationwide stoppage’.
A few weeks later, a nationwide strike in Portugal has been announced by the Frente Comum of Public Administration Unions.
It is in protest against the proposed 2027 State Budget and is set to disrupt the country.
It could particularly affect sectors in public administration which includes schools, healthcare and admin services.
HUGE walkouts are set to affect both Italy and Spain this week with both flight and train journeys disrupted.
The biggest strike will be held in Italy where staff who work in public and private sectors are staging demonstrations across the whole country.
Flights in Italy could be impacted by the strikes in Italy on October 30Credit: VW Pics via ZUMA Press WireA separate strike in Tuscany could affect flights in Pisa and FlorenceCredit: Alamy
The nationwide strike is scheduled for October 30 from 12am to 12.59pm.
The 24-hour walkout includes some who work in airports, however it’s unclear how many will take part in this general strike and which airline workers will join.
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However, there’s a separate strike set to take place in Tuscany on October 30.
Ground-handling companies at Toscana Aeroporti, which runs Pisa and Florence airports are planning their own 24-hour strike.
These staff are essential to the running of the airport – they load bags, check in passengers and turn planes around between flights.
A walkout here could mean delays and cancellations even if pilots and airline crews are working normally.
However, it’s possible that this will be called off as the day of the strike falls within Italy’s protected period.
Between October 30 and November 5, strikes that affect flights and airports are normally prohibited as it is a busy holiday period in Italy with All Saints’ Day falling on November 1.
Even if airport workers don’t join the strike action, the walkout will have an impact on Metro services, and on motorways, staff and toll services are set to strike.
Dockworkers and port staff are also set to strike and on the day there could be closures at attractions like museums.
The strike comes shortly after demonstrations in Italy over the cost of livingCredit: Getty
The walkout follows widespread protests across the county about the rising costs of living, a new government budget plan and students are protesting over school conditions.
Over in Spain, a rail strike is set to take place on October 29 between 12.01am and 23.39pm.
The train drivers’ union SEMAF is calling for members who work for train operator Renfe to walk out.
This is over an ongoing dispute over safety standards on the country’s rail network.
It could cause major disruption across the country as Renfe operates across the entire network of Spain connecting major cities like Barcelona, Seville, Zaragoza and Alicante.
In Spain, workers for Renfe which operates trains across the country are staging a walkoutCredit: Alamy
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.
A NUMBER of flights to and from a UK airport have been cancelled today as Storm Austen hits the UK.
The country is set to be battered with 80mph winds with the south of England and the Channel Islands set to be affected the most.
Storm Austen brings 80mph winds as well as flight cancellations and delaysCredit: ReutersSouthampton Airport has cancelled a number of flights this morningCredit: AFP
Southampton Airport has cancelled the majority of its flights this morning to destinations like the Channel Islands, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Belfast.
Some of the flights that have been taken off the schedule including the 11.20am flight from Southampton to Alderney and the easyJet flight to Glasgow this afternoon.
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Guernsey-based airline Aurigny has cancelled all its services this morning due to the weather.
Departures have been cancelled until at least midday and arrivals until 2pm.
The Aurigny spokesperson said: “We recognise how frustrating and disappointing these cancellations will be over the holiday period.
“However, these decisions are never taken lightly, and safety must always come first.”
On its website, travel information explained that ‘all cancelled flights will be eligible for a full refund’ and affected customers will be contacted by the airline.
Some flights from Southampton remain on the schedule for this afternoon including the 12.35pm to Belfast with Aer Lingus and the 2.35pm Loganair flight to Newcastle.
On the Channel Island of Jersey, the airport has cancelled all flights this morning but should restart this afternoon.
Meanwhile, holidaymakers flying from Heathrow, Gatwick, or London City Airport have been advised to check the status of their flight today.
The area where Gatwick is located has a yellow wind warning today with predicted wind speeds of up to 60mph.
Aurigny which serves Guernsey has cancelled all flights this morningCredit: Alamy
PROTESTS have spread across Europe with cities like Milan and Rome affected – and with more strikes on the horizon, is it still safe to travel to?
Here’s everything you need to know right now about travelling to Italy right now.
Protests have been taking place across Italy over the last few daysCredit: AFPStrikes have been scheduled for next week impacting air travelCredit: Getty
Where are the demonstrations and strikes in Italy?
Following the unrest in France, around 100,000 people in more than 40 cities across Italy took part in a demonstration called “No Meloni Day” last Friday.
Some of the destinations most affected include Rome, Bologna, Milan and Turin.
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The strikes have been around the rising costs of living, a new government budget plan and students are protesting over school conditions.
Italy has said as a result, it will introduce stricter anti-riot laws. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said: “Demonstrating is a right, but destroying our cities is not.”
The new law will impact anyone joining a group of at least five people and will endanger public safety during protests with penalties up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of €20,000 (£16,759).
It’s not just demonstrations – there are strikes across the country for the next few months affecting public transport and air travel.
Ground handling staff at Bologna Airport have confirmed a four-hour walkout listed for October 29 between 12pm to 16pm, according to Italy’s transport ministry strike register.
The largest strike however is scheduled for October 30 which is a 24-hour walkout by workers in many public sectors across the country.
This includes ENIT/ENAV air traffic control and local aviation services at airports such as in Tuscany, Pisa and Florence.
Police clashed with protesters in Milan last weekCredit: AFP
Rail staff will also walkout affecting services on the Metro, on the motorways, staff and toll services are set to strike too.
Dockworkers and port staff are also set to strike and on the day there could be closures at attractions like museums.
Is it safe to travel to Italy right now?
The FCDO recently updated its advice: “Recent demonstrations across northern Italian cities have led to violent riots and looting.
“There is an increased presence of police and military personnel in Milan. Further demonstrations may take place in major cities. See Political demonstrations.
“A national strike is planned for 30 October and is expected to affect transport systems. Check with your travel provider for the latest information.”
However, Italy still remains a safe place to travel.
Are flights still going to Italy?
Currently flights are still going to and from Italy. But there could be problems in the coming days.
Wizz Air has warned its customers that flights to or from Italian airports could face delays because protests and road blockades are disrupting fuel supplies for several airports.
The airline added: “Our operational teams are closely coordinating with airports and fuel suppliers and reviewing alternative arrangements to minimize the impact on our customers, while maintaining safety as our highest priority.”
It’s advising customers to check the status of their flight before travelling to the airport.
On October 30, the planned strikes are scheduled to start at 12am until 11.59pm.
Passengers flying to or from Italy should check their airline’s flight status and monitor updates before travelling.
What if I have a holiday to Italy booked?
The FCDO has advised caution for anyone travelling to Italy, but a ‘do not travel’ warning has not been issued.
Holidaymakers can still visit Italy, and travel insurance should remain valid, but check your policy details.
If you decide not to go on a booked holiday, operators won’t have to give a refund because travel advice says it is still safe for travel.
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.
DEMONSTRATONS across France turned violent over the weekend with shops being looted and cars being set on fire – so is it still safe to travel to?
Here’s everything you need to know right now about travelling to Paris.
Some of the protests across France turned violent in cities like ParisCredit: GettyIn some cities, like Paris, fires were lit and shops were lootedCredit: Getty
Where are the riots?
The riots in France began on Saturday with demonstrations against rising living costs and declining public services being held across the last two days.
Some spiralled out of control resulting in fires and looting – it’s been called ‘some of the worst violence the country has witnessed for decades’.
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Local authorities said that around 550,000 people took part in protests across France on Saturday, however it’s predicted there were as many as 800,000.
Over the weekend, 2,400 people were arrested for violence and looting.
In Paris, there was widespread damage to shops and businesses – protesters clashed with riot police, who turned tear gas and water cannon on the crowds.
Some groups lit fires in the street and torched vehicles.
On Sunday morning in Paris, the aftermath included smashed glass fronts of designer shops and clearing up rubbish and glass in the streets.
Other cities faced violence too like Marseille, Lille and Lyon, as well as Limoges where a 19th century town hall that survived the two World Wars was set alight and collapsed.
The French Prime Minister, Emmanuel Macron, is holding a crisis meeting today.
He said: “Those who looted will have to pay for the damage, and those who sought to bring down the Republic will be held accountable.”
Riot police were deployed to control the crowdsCredit: Getty
The FCDO does warn however that “demonstrations, political gatherings, or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities.
“Whilst most demonstrations are peaceful, if you’re near areas where they are taking place, you should remain aware of what is happening around you and follow the advice of the police and local authorities.”
Brits can continue to travel to and from Paris, but visitors should keep an eye on updates about the demonstrations and avoid large crowds.
Also allow extra time for possible road closures within the city.
Over the weekend, attractions like museums, and the Metro were limited, so check everything is open before planning visits.
President Macron said that ‘those who looted will have to pay for the damage’Credit: REUTERSThe aftermath shows burnt out bikes with rubbish and debris left on the streetsCredit: Getty
Are flights and trains still going to Paris?
Yes, flights and train travel including the Eurostar remain scheduled as usual.
If you are due to travel and have concerns, it may be worth contacting the operator to check if services are running normally.
What if I have a holiday to Paris booked?
As the Foreign Office has not warned against travel to France, there are no special circumstances in place for holidaymakers to cancel their trip and receive a full refund.
Can I cancel my trip?
If you do choose to cancel your trip, it is best to contact your airline, train operator or holiday provider.
There is no obligation for companies to refund bookings unless government advice changes.
So to get to the island, tourists including Brits, need to fly to Athens or Thessaloniki before taking a smaller connecting plane over to the island.
However, this is set to change as work on the runway will see it extended to be 1,799m long which means that it will be able to accommodate much larger types of aircraft.
During the works, emergency flights will be permitted to land, which includes medical evacuations, search and rescue.
However, there is some opposition to the plans.
The runway will be extended to accommodate larger aircraftCredit: AlamyCurrently the airport can only accommodate smaller aircraftCredit: Unknown
President of the Chios chamber of commerce Pantelis Legatos said: “The early closure will seriously affect the economy and society of the island, especially during the holiday season (Christmas, New Year), when people have planned trips, family visits and medical appointments.
“Chios, as a border island 5 miles from Turkey, depends on the air connection with the capital for health, entertainment and freedom reasons.”
The original plan was to close the airport on January 15 which is months later than the current schedule.
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.
ANYONE planning to get to London Heathrow this weekend should check travel options before heading to the airport.
Major engineering works will see one tube line partly close and two other services to the terminals will be scaled back.
Anyone heading to Heathrow on the train or tube could run into problems this weekendCredit: GettyOn both days there will be no service to London Heathrow on the Piccadilly LineCredit: Getty – Contributor
On both Saturday and Sunday, the Piccadilly Line will have no service between Hammersmith and London Heathrow terminals.
There will also be no Night Tube service on October 16 – normal service is expected to resume on October 19.
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Travel to or from Heathrow Airport on the Elizabeth Line will also experience issues.
Services on Saturday will run as usual, but on Sunday, there will be a reduced service between Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 4.
SAUDI Arabia has been targeted by missile attacks over the weekend – some of which hit the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
It has led to a change in FCDO advice – so what happens if you have a holiday booked, or a flight stopover?
King Khalid International Airport was targeted in a missile attack over the weekendCredit: APAs a result, the FCDO for Brits advises against all travel to Saudi ArabiaCredit: REUTERS
What is happening in Saudi Arabia?
Over the weekend, Houthi forces in Yemen launched an attack on in Saudi Arabia’s capital city, Riyadh.
The FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Saudi Arabia.
It read: “Following a serious incident at King Khalid International Airport on 10 October 2026 at approximately 1500 (local time), we advise British nationals to stay away from King Khalid International Airport until the airport is secure and to monitor the advice of the Saudi authorities.”
It adds that it advises against:
all but essential travel to all airports within Saudi Arabia except for Medina International Airport
all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen
all but essential travel to Aseer province, Riyadh province, Najran province, Jizan province and the cities of Taif, Jeddah and Dammam
It continued to say: “There is a heightened threat against airports, military bases, ports and energy infrastructure across Saudi Arabia, including Abha, Jizan, Najran, Riyadh, Taif, Jeddah and Yanbu, as well as Saudi shipping vessels in the Red Sea.”
“Further attacks against airports are very likely. Follow Saudi Civil Defence alerts.”
Riyadh is frequently used as a stopover destination for BritsCredit: Getty
Are flights still going to Saudi Arabia?
King Khalid International Airport closed on Saturday following the missile strikes and remains closed with flight disruption across the region.
While the Saudi Arabia air space remains open, there is a high risk of short-notice airport closures, diversions and airspace disruption.
Reuters has reported that certain airlines have suspended flights to Riyadh.
Lufthansa Group has suspended flights to Riyadh until October 16.
Air France-KLM has halted services to the Saudi capital until the end of the month.
Emirates which flies Brits to Riyadh via Dubai has been affected by cancellations.
What if I’m currently in Saudi Arabia?
The FCDO advice reads that any British national in the Middle East should prepare for flight cancellations and possible airspace closures.
The advice also states:
follow advice from the local authorities and sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
refrain from capturing or sharing images of conflict-related incidents
monitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice
stay away from areas around oil infrastructure and military facilities. Exercise caution at transport hubs
keep your travel plans under review and ensure your travel documents are up to date
before you travel, check that your route does not include travelling through areas or airports where FCDO advises against all but essential travel and, if it does, consider whether your travel is essential
if travelling by air, check that your reservation is confirmed and the status of your flight before travelling to the airport. Remain alert at airports and follow instructions from local authorities
if you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure
Saudi Civil Defence may issue early warning alerts to people in affected areas
Head here to read the latest guidance on ‘how to prepare for a crisis’ and what to include in emergency supplies.
What if I have a holiday booked and can I cancel my trip?
Before you cancel a flight or holiday booking, speak to your travel provider first – especially if it’s a stopover flight as it may be rerouted.
In places where the FCDO advises against all but essential travel, you may be able to cancel a package holiday and get a full refund.
A MAJOR UK airport that sees millions of passengers through its doors each year could come to a complete halt this week.
A strike at Leeds Bradford Airport may mean that no flights will be able to land or depart across two days.
Leeds Bradford Airport is set to come to a complete standstill this weekCredit: GettyAlmost 130 members of staff are staging a walkout over payCredit: Alamy
If it does go ahead as planned, then it will mean no flights will be able to land, depart and passengers won’t be able to pass security.
Nearly 130 workers are staging a walkout at Leeds Bradford Airport in a dispute over pay.
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Those striking includes a mix of air traffic control workers, security, customer service and cleaners.
The industrial action is set to start on October 16 and last until 6am on Sunday 18.
There have been ongoing talks over pay since December 2025 but Unite members involved said it “didn’t go far enough”.
Unite regional officer Neil Whitaker said they had “no choice but to strike,” and what would be needed to call of the action is a “fair pay rise”.
In a statement from the airport, it said: “Leeds Bradford Airport acknowledges the proposed industrial action due to take place between 16-18 October involving a group of operational colleagues.
“We respect the right of employees to participate in lawful industrial action. However, we are disappointed by this and do not believe strike action is the right way to resolve the issues still under discussion.
“The airport has made what we believe is a fair and responsible offer that is significantly above inflation and reflects both current economic conditions and the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business.
“Our priority now is to minimise disruption for customers, many of whom have worked hard and saved for important holidays, family visits and business travel. At this stage we anticipate running near-normal operations during the period.”
Leeds Bradford Airport is set to handle around 4.5million passengers every yearCredit: Getty
“Leeds Bradford Airport plays a vital role in connecting Yorkshire to the world. Industrial action has the potential to cause inconvenience for thousands of customers and local businesses who rely on those connections.
“We remain committed to constructive dialogue with Unite and would welcome continued discussions aimed at reaching a resolution.
“It is important to recognise that any profits generated by Leeds Bradford Airport are reinvested back into the airport and has been for a number of years. Those funds support improvements to facilities, infrastructure, operations and customer experience including the ongoing LBA:REGEN project which saw the opening of a new central search zone and staff welfare facilities this week.”
The terminal was renovated with a modern arrivals process with 83 per cent more seating and two premium lounges.
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.
A NATIONWIDE strike in Spain is expected to ‘bring the country to a complete standstill’ next month.
The industrial action will affect flights, public transport, shops, restaurants and museums.
Trips to Spain could be affected by a nationwide strike next monthCredit: Getty ImagesFlights are expected to be cancelled or face severe delays on November 11Credit: Getty
The shutdown is due to take place on November 11 when major trade unions in Spain will 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.
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While it hasn’t been confirmed, flights across Spain are expected to face cancellations or delays.
Previous general strikes have heavily involved airport ground staff, air traffic controllers, and airline cabin crews causing lots of disruption.
It’s not just flights either – on the ground, public transport will be affected.
The strike is expected to impact trains including high-speed lines, the city metro, and buses which could face severe disruption.
Roads could be closed as well in cities like Madrid and Barcelona which are likely to see large protest marches.
For anyone already on holiday there at the time, the walkout could see some restaurants, museum and shops close too.
If they’re not shut, the opening hours could be reduced to holiday hours.
Advice for those due to travel on November 11 is to keep an eye on any updates from your airline.
Keep an eye on notifications on the airline for those due to fly on that dayCredit: Alamy
Many airlines operate flights from the UK to Spain like BA, EasyJetRyanair, Iberia, TUI, Jet2, Wizz Air and Vueling.
Disruption to flights on this day would be deemed as being an “extraordinary circumstance” which means airlines aren’t required to pay extra compensation.
However, airlines are legally required to rebook you or offer a refund.
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.
However, if you are due to fly with the likes of Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air or British Airways – ground handling for these airlines is carried out by another provider at the airport.
The strike action comes as workers protest against governmental policies.
Unfortunately, as this strike is outside of the airline’s control it will be deemed an ‘extraordinary circumstance’, which means if your flight is cancelled you will not be entitled to compensation.
Ground handling staff are set to walk out and around 140 flights are expected to be cancelledCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
However, airlines do still have a duty of care to passengers.
This means that they should rebook or refund your flight free of charge as well as provide you with food and drink, as well as accommodation if required.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Leeds Bradford Airport is very profitable and can more than afford to come back to the table with an offer that doesn’t fall short of our members’ expectations.
“Our hardworking members should not be paid less than those doing the same jobs at other airports.
“Workers taking action at Leeds Bradford Airport have Unite’s full support in their fight for fairer pay.”
It also previously revealed plans to one day launch long-haul flights, with most routes being to Europe including Spain.
Although the airport is losing all of it’s easyJet flights next year, which will be axed by January 2027.
Unite regional officer Neil Whitaker said they had “no choice but to strike,” citing a “fair pay rise” needed to call it off.
A Leeds Bradford Airport spokesperson told Sun Travel: “Leeds Bradford Airport acknowledges the proposed industrial action due to take place between 16-18 October involving a group of operational colleagues.
“We respect the right of employees to participate in lawful industrial action. However, we are disappointed by this and do not believe strike action is the right way to resolve the issues still under discussion.
“The airport has made what we believe is a fair and responsible offer that is significantly above inflation and reflects both current economic conditions and the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business.
“Our priority now is to minimise disruption for customers, many of whom have worked hard and saved for important holidays, family visits and business travel. At this stage we anticipate running near-normal operations during the period.
“Leeds Bradford Airport plays a vital role in connecting Yorkshire to the world. Industrial action has the potential to cause inconvenience for thousands of customers and local businesses who rely on those connections.
“We remain committed to constructive dialogue with Unite and would welcome continued discussions aimed at reaching a resolution.
“It is important to recognise that any profits generated by Leeds Bradford Airport are reinvested back into the airport and has been for a number of years. Those funds support improvements to facilities, infrastructure, operations and customer experience including the ongoing LBA:REGEN project which saw the opening of a new central search zone and staff welfare facilities this week.”
