The ongoing easyJet pilots’ strike in Spain has now entered its third 72-hour period, starting this Saturday and extending into Sunday, leading to additional cancellations. This update comes from the Spanish Airline Pilots Association, known as Sepla, which has been monitoring the disruptions closely and communicating with authorities and the airline. The recent action compounds the impact already felt during the two previous strike windows and highlights the breadth of the disruption for travelers and the flight network. (Sepla)
Among the latest cancellations, two flights originating from or destined for Barcelona were affected, with Geneva cited as a destination, while two other flights tied to Palma de Mallorca involved London as their origin or destination. These new cancellations add to the tally reported for the weekend and reflect the ongoing scheduling challenges that have accompanied the strike. (Sepla)
To put the situation in perspective, cancellations announced for Sunday follow those logged on Saturday, together with figures from the first strike period on August 12, 13 and 14, and from the second period on August 19, 20 and 21. When combined, the strike has produced a substantial cumulative effect on easyJet operations during this period. (Sepla)
Overall, the total number of cancellations attributed to the Sepla-led action reaches 79 flights since the conflict began, illustrating how a localized labor dispute can ripple across multiple routes and hubs. The situation continues to evolve as unions and the airline engage in legal proceedings and negotiations. (Sepla)
Legal developments are also playing a key role in the narrative. Sepla has filed an appeal with the National Supreme Court, describing the government-mandated minimum services as an abuse in the context of the easyJet strike. The union argues that the minimum service requirements fail to reflect the realities of air travel demand and operational constraints. (Sepla)
Looking ahead, Sepla has indicated plans to pursue further action against easyJet in the coming days, asserting that certain practices related to the maintenance of minimum services amount to abuse. The union voiced concerns that a high rate of activity could be achieved despite the strike, underscoring perceived gaps between policy and actual flight operations. (Sepla)
According to Sepla, the logic of the minimum service policy is questioned. The union notes that a 59% minimum service rate contrasts with 95% of flights continuing to operate in some periods, implying that the disruptions are not solely due to crew availability but also to broader scheduling and logistical factors. The pilots emphasize that their actions are not taken lightly and are driven by real concerns about working conditions, safety, and the long-term sustainability of air travel. (Sepla)