Workers at Azul Handling, a subsidiary of Ryanair, have initiated a strike across major airports in Spain starting August 15, 2025, with ongoing work stoppages scheduled every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until the end of the year, citing poor working conditions and wage disputes.

The strike has led to potential delays and cancellations at airports, although initial reports indicate only minor disruptions due to legal minimum service requirements and government intervention.

Passengers are advised to stay informed about flight statuses, arrive early, and consider carrying only hand luggage to mitigate the impact of delays and cancellations caused by the strike.

Travelers should also check with airlines for their rights and compensation options, which vary depending on delay duration and flight distance, especially during this busy holiday period.

The Spanish Ministry of Transport has mandated minimum service levels during the strike to reduce disruption, but the strike still presents significant challenges for travelers and airport operations.

A new shuttle bus service connecting Corvera Airport with Murcia, Torrevieja, and San Juan, launched earlier this year, aims to assist passengers and offers affordable fares and group discounts.

Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers affected by delays or cancellations are not entitled to compensation but are guaranteed assistance such as meals, accommodation, and rebooking options.

Initial impact of the strike has been minimal, with only slight delays reported at major airports, partly due to legal obligations requiring minimum service levels.

Despite claims from Ryanair that the strike will have limited impact due to legal minimum service rules and union representation being under 20%, there is concern about potential delays and cancellations, especially during peak travel days.

The unions have called for mediation, but Ryanair has shown little willingness to negotiate, raising the risk of ongoing industrial action.

The strike, which began on August 15, 2025, and is scheduled to continue until December 31, involves work stoppages at different times and may impact approximately 3.5 million passengers during this period.

Airports without Ryanair bases, such as Almería, Asturias, Castellón, and others, are not directly affected but could experience delays due to broader network disruptions.