EasyJet Passengers Warned of Industrial Action in Spain Amid Dispute Over Wages

Strategic Insights -

Industrial action is set to take place at four Spanish airports, including Barcelona, Alicante, Malaga, and Palma, after the USO Unión Sindical Obrera union called for a three-day strike. The move will affect hundreds of flight attendants, potentially impacting up to 21 aircraft. The union has expressed dissatisfaction with wages, claiming that Spanish easyJet staff receive 30-200% less than their European counterparts. EasyJet maintains that it will operate as normal, despite the strike.

Key Takeaways:

  • The USO Unión Sindical Obrera union has called for a three-day strike at four Spanish airports, affecting hundreds of flight attendants.
  • The strike is reportedly in response to disagreements over wages, with the union claiming that Spanish easyJet staff receive 30-200% less than their European counterparts.
  • EasyJet plans to operate normally during the strike, with a spokesperson stating that the company will do everything possible to minimize the impact.
  • The airline is gearing up to launch operations from Newcastle International Airport next spring, promising to create 130 new jobs.
  • EasyJet previously closed its Newcastle base in 2020, affecting roughly 670 staff members.
  • The airline has expressed enthusiasm for its expansion, with CEO Kenton Jarvis stating that it is an important market for easyJet.
  • The new base will offer greater connectivity, delivering hundreds of thousands of low-cost seats and package holidays for passengers.
  • The airport is a key economic driver for the North East, contributing over £1 billion in GVA each year.

Statistics:

  • 657 cabin crew members are set to strike at four Spanish airports.
  • 21 aircraft may be impacted by the strike.
  • 30-200% less wages are being claimed to be received by Spanish easyJet staff compared to European counterparts.
  • 130 jobs are set to be created at the new Newcastle International Airport base.
  • 670 staff members were affected by the closure of the Newcastle base in 2020.
  • The airport contributes over £1 billion in GVA each year.

Sources:

  • Majorca Daily Bulletin
  • The Mirror
  • MEN