Travellers across Europe are facing widespread disruption as strikes in Greece and Italy bring transportation services to a halt.
A wave of protests demanding better wages and working conditions has led to cancelled flights, stopped trains, and immobilised ferries.
In Greece, a nationwide strike shut down major transport services on Wednesday. Ferries were docked, flights grounded, and trains left stations empty as workers pressed the government to address the rising cost of living. The country’s largest unions, representing millions of private and public sector employees, coordinated the action in response to what they say are wages that fail to keep up with inflation.
Greece has been recovering from a prolonged financial crisis that lasted nearly a decade. The government has increased the minimum wage by 35 percent since then, bringing it to 880 euros per month. However, unions argue this is still not enough for households to meet essential expenses like food, electricity, and rent. Average salaries remain 10 percent lower than they were in 2010, according to government data.
Wednesday’s strike impacted every major mode of transport. While ferries connecting the islands to the mainland were cancelled, train services across the country came to a stop. In Athens, metro and bus workers joined in with limited service hours, contributing to gridlock in the capital. Protesters also called for the reinstatement of annual bonuses, which were removed during the bailout years. The government, citing budget limits, has declined this demand but promised future wage increases, targeting a minimum wage of 950 euros and an average salary of 1,500 euros.
Meanwhile, in Italy, EasyJet flight attendants are planning to walk off the job for four hours on Wednesday, 9 April. The strike, led by major Italian labour unions, will affect flights across the country, especially those to and from Milan and Naples. Passengers are being warned to expect delays and cancellations during the scheduled strike window from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm local time.
EasyJet confirmed the planned strike and said it is taking steps to minimise disruption. The airline has begun notifying affected customers with information on rescheduling or alternative arrangements.
With tensions growing across Europe over stagnant wages and the rising cost of living, travel disruptions are expected to continue. Authorities are urging travellers to check their transport providers for updates and make alternative plans where possible.