Strike action at Palma Airport could disrupt Easter travel

Passengers planning to travel through Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) during the Easter period are being advised to prepare for possible disruptions due to planned strike action by ground handling staff.

 

The industrial action involves two major service providers, Groundforce and Menzies, whose employees play a key role in airport operations, including check-in, baggage handling and aircraft servicing.

Groundforce workers are set to strike indefinitely from 27 March, with action taking place every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during specific time windows: 05:00–07:00, 11:00–17:00 and 22:00–00:00.

Meanwhile, Menzies staff have announced full-day strikes on 28–29 March and again from 2–6 April. The impact is expected to be particularly significant on overlapping strike days, including 3 and 6 April.

Ground handling staff are responsible for a wide range of operations, from passenger services and boarding to baggage handling, aircraft turnaround and logistics. Disruptions to these services can lead to delays, cancellations and baggage issues across the airport.

The strikes stem from ongoing labour disputes. Groundforce workers are protesting over wage adjustments linked to inflation, while Menzies employees have raised concerns about working conditions and job stability.

Although not all airlines use the affected service providers, disruption could still impact the wider airport due to shared infrastructure such as baggage systems and ground operations.

Passengers are advised to monitor flight updates closely, check in online where possible and allow additional time at the airport. Travelling with hand luggage only may also help reduce the risk of delays.

There remains a possibility that the strikes could be called off if agreements are reached during last-minute negotiations, which is not uncommon in Spain.