Rail Strike in Spain and General Strike in Italy Threaten Major Travel Disruption Across Europe This Week

Travelers heading to Italy and Spain could face major transportation disruptions this week as workers prepare to strike in both countries. Rail passengers in Spain could see delays and cancellations beginning Thursday, October 29, while a nationwide strike in Italy on Friday could affect trains, flights and other forms of transportation.

In Spain, train drivers represented by the SEMAF union are planning a 24-hour strike on Thursday that will affect Renfe, the country's national passenger rail company, according to an announcement from the union. The strike is scheduled to run from 12:01 a.m. through 11:59 p.m., the union said.

SEMAF cited concerns including railway safety, working conditions and what it described as unfulfilled commitments as reasons for the strike. Some trains will continue operating during the strike under minimum service requirements.

The Spanish government has required 73 percent of Renfe's high-speed and long-distance trains and 65 percent of its medium-distance trains to run during the strike, according to Renfe.

Renfe has pushed back against some of the reasons given for the strike. The company said it has completed the steps it was responsible for under a February agreement aimed at improving the country's rail system, moved forward with additional hiring and taken steps to improve train maintenance, while arguing that several other issues raised by the union are controlled by government agencies or other organizations.

In a statement, Renfe said it respects the exercise of the right to strike, but regrets a call that could affect thousands of travelers despite the progress made and full compliance with the obligations assumed by the company in the February agreement.

Travel problems in Spain could continue on Friday, when drivers for Ouigo, another high-speed rail operator, are planning a separate 24-hour strike over working conditions.

In Italy, a nationwide general strike is scheduled for Friday, October 30, with transportation workers among those expected to take part, according to Italy's Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. Rail workers are scheduled to strike from 9 p.m. Thursday through 8:59 p.m. Friday, according to the ministry's strike calendar.

Air travel in Italy could also face disruptions on Friday, while ground-handling workers at Florence and Pisa airports are planning a separate 24-hour strike, according to the government schedule. Reasons for the strike include concerns over the cost of living, wages and pensions, as well as opposition to increased military spending, according to the USB union.