Barcelona-El Prat Airport faces disruption from indefinite ground handling strike

An indefinite strike by approximately 1,200 ground handling employees at Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) has caused significant operational disruptions. The strike, initiated by the CGT union against the company Groundforce on August 4, 2026, affects staff responsible for check-in, baggage handling, boarding, and aircraft turnaround.

Workers have cited excessive workloads, unpaid overtime, insufficient rest periods, and safety concerns as reasons for the walkout. The strike impacts approximately 20 international airlines, including Lufthansa Group, Air France, KLM, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and United Airlines. While the Spanish government has mandated minimum service levels—ranging from 35% for domestic flights to 58% for international connections—the airport has already experienced flight cancellations and delays exceeding two hours.

Reports indicate that some aircraft have departed without checked baggage. Estimates suggest up to two million passengers could be affected during the peak summer travel period of August and September. Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, affected passengers are entitled to choose between full refunds or alternative transportation, as well as assistance such as meals and, if necessary, overnight accommodation.