Foreign Office issues Spanish travel warning
Airlines have been forced to cancel hundreds of flights to Spain today amid fears that a general strike will bring the country to a near standstill.
The Foreign Office is warning that the strike by Spain’s two largest trade unions will also hit public transport and passengers are being advised to check travel arrangements with their airline or tour operator before heading to the airport.
Spain’s national carrier Iberia has cancelled more than 200 flights, including some services between London and Madrid, tomorrow. Passengers can transfer to alternative flight or apply for refunds, up to April 15.
British Airways has cancelled more than two thirds of flights today and is giving passengers the option to delay their flight until April 3 to 6.
Subsidiary Air Nostrum has axed flights between Manchester, Glasgow and Madrid while new low-cost carrier Iberia Express has removed many domestic flights.
EasyJet said it was expecting significant disruption to services today when Spanish workers walk out in protest over changes to labour laws. The airline has cancelled 27 flights, including some services between Gatwick and Madrid and Stansted and Malaga.
Ryanair has axed more than a dozen flights between the UK and SpainPassengers will be put on the next available flight, free of charge (boarding passes will be issued at the airport, also free of charge), or given the option to cancel with a full refund.
Barcelona-based Vueling has cancelled two-thirds of its programme, including flights between Heathrow and Vigo and La Coruna. Passengers booked to travel today will be able to cancel or change their flight free of charge, but must pay the difference of fare.
Regional trains will be at a standstill tomorrow, although about a third of local trains and buses are expected to operate.
The Foreign Office warned travellers of potential demonstrations in city centres across Spain, which may further disrupt public services.
By Linsey McNeill
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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