EasyJet Germany strikes are threatening widespread travel disruptions this autumn and winter. Separate labour disputes in Portugal and France are set to affect flights during some of the busiest travel periods. These actions could lead to numerous cancellations and delays for passengers.
Portuguese cabin crew have announced two significant strike periods. The first walkout is scheduled for October 2nd to 6th. Meanwhile, a second strike will occur just before Christmas, from December 19th to 23rd. These dates coincide directly with German autumn school holidays and the crucial festive travel season.
Reports suggest up to 500 EasyJet flights could be affected during the October action alone. However, the exact number of cancellations remains unclear. Portuguese law mandates a minimum level of service during such industrial actions. Travellers departing from Berlin Brandenburg Airport may experience the biggest impact on routes connecting to Porto and Funchal on the island of Madeira.
Furthermore, French EasyJet pilots also plan strike action. Their union has currently scheduled walkouts for October 1st and 2nd. However, these dates have already been postponed twice, as negotiations with the airline continue. Initial plans included September 13th-14th, then September 24th-25th.
If the French strike proceeds, flights to and from EasyJet’s French bases could face significant disruption. This includes major hubs such as Paris Charles de Gaulle and Paris Orly. Several of these airports maintain direct connections with Berlin, potentially affecting flights between Germany and France.
Passengers generally do not need to take immediate action unless contacted by the airline. EasyJet typically informs affected customers directly via email, text message, or its mobile application. This usually occurs a few days before departure once flight schedules are finalised. Therefore, travellers should closely monitor their booking status and all airline communications.
The Portuguese cabin crew union claims EasyJet has not honoured collective agreements. They also highlight frequent schedule changes and an over-reliance on overtime due to staffing shortages. EasyJet disputes some of these allegations, confirming that talks are ongoing through Portugal’s labour mediation process.
In France, pilots complain about frequent and short-notice changes to their flight rosters. Their union seeks similar scheduling protections recently granted to French-based cabin crew. A separate strike earlier this year secured those benefits. The cumulative effect of these EasyJet Germany strikes could impact thousands of holidaymakers.
