Swissport strike in Palma de Mallorca threatens peak season delays
Passengers and travel agencies who have flights scheduled via Palma de Mallorca Airport at the end of July and beginning of August should expect possible delays. The CCOO union branch at Swissport confirmed four days of partial strike after negotiations with management failed to reach an agreement.
Ground staff have announced partial work stoppages on 28 July and 1, 4 and 8 August. Disruptions could affect passenger check-in, baggage handling and aircraft boarding for several international airlines.
Work stoppages will take place from 7 am to 12 pm and again from 7 pm to 10 pm. This is a period of increased traffic, which increases the risk of queues forming and delays spilling over into the rest of the daily schedule.
According to the latest information, the meeting held on 23 July before the Balearic arbitration and conciliation body was also unsuccessful. As a result, the union is currently sticking to its announced strike schedule.
Salaries, number of workers and protection from heat
Employee demands are not limited to wage increases. CCOO is calling for the application of the sectoral collective agreement for handling, better shift planning, sufficient staffing, and clearer recognition for jobs with greater responsibility.
A particular problem is working outdoors during high summer temperatures. The union is therefore calling for stronger protection measures for staff working on the apron, where employees are exposed to the sun, heated surfaces, and physically demanding tasks.
Swissport in Palma provides services to carriers including TUI, Condor, TAP Air Portugal, Air Canada, Etihad Airways and DAT.
The biggest risk is a chain delay
No large number of flight cancellations is expected for now, as a minimum level of service is usually maintained during strikes in Spain's transport sector. However, that does not mean operations will run without a hitch.
A shortage of people in passenger check-in, baggage loading or aircraft acceptance processes can extend aircraft turnaround times. One delay then easily affects subsequent rotations, particularly during peak season.
For travel agencies, tour operators, and TMCs, it is most important to promptly monitor carrier notifications. Travellers should be advised to check in online, arrive at the airport earlier, and allow extra time for baggage drop-off.
