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Ryanair Flights at Risk as Spain Ground Staff Strike Looms

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The strike, called by the UGT union with support from CGT, will impact all Azul Handling bases, including major airports such as Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Alicante, Seville, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, and Tenerife South. Work stoppages are planned in three peak travel windows each day:

  • 05:00–09:00

  • 12:00–15:00

  • 21:00–23:59

If no agreement is reached during Wednesday’s mediation meeting at SIMA, the union warns that strikes will continue every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until December 31, 2025.

Will your flight be affected?
Ryanair has stated that it does not expect major disruptions, but ground services are crucial for normal operations. Without staff to load baggage, refuel aircraft, and manage boarding, delays and cancellations remain possible. Passengers are advised to check flight status in advance and prepare for potential changes.

Are you entitled to compensation?
In many cases, yes. Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers can claim compensation for delays or cancellations. However, eligibility depends on whether the strike is considered an “extraordinary circumstance.”

The European Court of Justice has previously ruled that strikes by subcontracted staff, such as Azul Handling, do not always exempt airlines from paying compensation, since they are not entirely beyond the airline’s control.

For Ryanair passengers, this means that claims for compensation may be valid if the strike causes significant disruption.



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Alaska Airlines unveils new plane livery and Seattle flights to London and Reykjavik

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August 6, 2025

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Alaska Airlines is expanding its international network by opening two new transatlantic routes from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to London Heathrow Airport and Reykjavik, Iceland. Flights are scheduled to begin in spring 2026, marking a significant step in the airline’s strategy to become a global carrier.

The daily flight to London Heathrow Airport will be operated year-round on Alaska Airlines’ new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which offers premium class amenities and 34 lie-flat suites in Business Class. The new seasonal route to Reykjavik will be operated daily during the summer months on Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft. 

“With these bold moves, we are accelerating our vision to connect our guests to the world. We are seizing this moment to redefine the international experience and level up. And we’re doing it with the same relentless focus on safety, care and performance that’s always defined us. I’m so proud of how our people continue to step up and deliver as we push ahead on these initiatives, with even more to come,” said Ben Minicucci, Alaska Airlines CEO.

The route launch coincides with the rollout of Alaska’s new global livery, which makes its debut only on the airline’s growing fleet of 787 Dreamliners. Inspired by the energy and spirit of the aurora borealis, the new design incorporates broad horizontal stripes of rich emerald green and deep midnight blue along the fuselage – an homage to Alaska’s natural environment and outstanding heritage, and a contemporary tribute to the iconic liveries from the 1970s and 1980s that link the airline’s past with its future. The aura’s flowing lines, visible in current premium cabins and main livery, give the design lightness, movement, and fluidity.

“Our new 787 exterior embodies Alaska’s transition to a global airline with beauty, grace and a nod to our heritage. As we significantly expand to new destinations around the globe, we’re eager for more and more travelers to recognize our new livery as being Alaska Airlines and appreciate the outstanding service we’ve long been known for,” commented Andrew Harrison, Alaska Airlines Chief Commercial Officer.

The carrier currently operates four 787-9s and plans to add up to 17 more aircraft by the end of the decade. A new pilot base in Seattle will support long-haul operations such as previously announced routes to Tokyo-Narita (January 2026), Rome (spring 2026), and a new nonstop service to Seoul-Incheon scheduled to launch on 12 September this year. 

These steps will allow Alaska to compete more effectively in key transatlantic markets, as London remains the busiest international destination from Seattle, with more than 400 passengers flying between the two cities each day for both business and leisure, and Reykjavik is a bucket-list destination for adventure and outdoor lovers, also serving as a gateway to mainland Europe. 

© Alaska Airlines

By 2030, Alaska aims to serve at least 12 international destinations from Seattle. The airline will also leverage partnerships with British Airways and American Airlines to provide broader connectivity through Oneworld Alliance networks.

Tickets for both routes are expected to go on sale later this fall. The London service will operate year-round, while flights to Reykjavik will run from mid-May through early September. 

As Alaska Airlines looks to broaden its international presence, the new offerings serve part of a larger commitment to better customer service, premium travel experiences, and expanded global access from the West Coast.



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Travel To Spain Is On Edge! Ryanair Flights Suffering Massive Delays, How Strike Disrupts Madrid, Alicante, Seville, and Key Airports You Need To Know

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August 6, 2025

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Home » TRAVEL ALERT » Travel To Spain Is On Edge! Ryanair Flights Suffering Massive Delays, How Strike Disrupts Madrid, Alicante, Seville, and Key Airports You Need To Know

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Travellers heading to and from Spain and also Seville, Valencia, Tenerife, Madrid South during the busy August holiday season might run into flight delays this year.

Ground staff from Azul Handling, an important provider for Ryanair, plan to strike for three days, from August 15 to August 17, 2025. The stoppage could disrupt hundreds of Ryanair flights at the country’s biggest airports.

Strike Details: A Threat to Spain’s Tourism Industry

Azul Handling provides essential ground services such as baggage handling, aircraft refueling, and boarding management for Ryanair at several key Spanish airports. The strike, called by the UGT union with backing from CGT, is expected to cause major disruptions at airports across Spain, particularly during peak travel times. The affected airports include Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Alicante, Seville, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, and Tenerife South.

The work stoppages are planned for three peak travel windows each day:

  • 05:00–09:00
  • 12:00–15:00
  • 21:00–23:59

This disruption comes at a crucial time for Spain’s tourism industry, with the August holiday period being one of the busiest for international travel. Tourists and locals alike will be impacted by the expected delays and cancellations, potentially affecting vacations and tourism experiences.

Impact on Ryanair Flights and Passenger Experience

Ryanair has acknowledged the strike but reassured passengers that it does not anticipate significant delays. However, the airline’s statement highlights that ground services are essential for the smooth operation of flights. The strike may lead to delays in baggage handling, aircraft refueling, and passenger boarding, which could have cascading effects on Ryanair’s flight schedule.

Tourists planning to travel during this period are encouraged to monitor their flight status closely and prepare for potential disruptions. Though Ryanair claims minimal impact, passengers should anticipate longer wait times and possible changes to flight schedules.

Compensation Rights for Affected Passengers

Passengers affected by flight delays or cancellations may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004. The regulation grants compensation for delays exceeding three hours or cancellations unless the disruption is due to “extraordinary circumstances.”

The key question regarding this strike revolves around whether it qualifies as an “extraordinary circumstance.” Previous rulings by the European Court of Justice suggest that strikes by subcontracted staff, such as those employed by Azul Handling, may not necessarily exempt airlines from compensating passengers. If the strike leads to significant disruption, Ryanair passengers may be eligible for compensation, depending on the specific circumstances of their delay or cancellation.

What Tourists Should Do to Minimize Disruption

Tourists travelling to Spain during the strike period should take proactive steps to minimise the impact of any disruption. Here are a few key recommendations:

  • Check Flight Status: Always check the status of your Ryanair flight on the airline’s website or mobile app before arriving at the airport.
  • Arrive Early: Given the potential for delays, arriving early will ensure you have ample time for any unexpected changes.
  • Prepare for Alternative Plans: If your flight is delayed or cancelled, explore alternative routes or departure times with Ryanair or other airlines.
  • Know Your Compensation Rights: Familiarise yourself with your rights under EU Regulation 261/2004 to ensure you claim compensation if necessary.

Looking Ahead: The Long-Term Impact on Spanish Tourism

If strikes go ahead and delays pile up, Spain’s tourism sector could feel the heat. Summer is peak travel time, especially for visitors from the UK and across Europe, and serious hold-ups can lead to unhappy travelers. That wave of complaints can linger and harm Spain’s image as the first choice for a getaway. To keep visitor trust, the Spanish government and tourism agencies might have to jump in with extra services or public messages to ready travelers and ease any panic.

Tourism is the backbone of the Spanish economy, and a choke in flights by Ryanair, which serves many key routes, won’t stop with the airlines. Hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas depend on the arriving traffic, so a messy travel schedule can ripple out, squeezing local incomes. Smooth flights, then, are not just about planes in the sky; they’re about keeping the whole tourism chain and Spain’s economy sky-high.

Image credit- Ryanair



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Royal Air Maroc Sets New Milestone In Global Aviation With Major Expansion Of Its Network, Introducing New Direct Flights To Key European And African Destinations

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August 6, 2025

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Home » AFRICA » Royal Air Maroc Sets New Milestone In Global Aviation With Major Expansion Of Its Network, Introducing New Direct Flights To Key European And African Destinations

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is setting a new milestone in global aviation with a bold expansion of its network, launching direct flights to several key European and African destinations. This strategic move is aimed at strengthening the airline’s position as a major player in the international travel market. By introducing new routes starting in September, RAM is not only enhancing its connectivity from its Casablanca hub but also responding to growing demand for seamless travel between continents. These additions will significantly improve access to key cities in Europe and Africa, offering more convenient options for both business and leisure travelers while reinforcing Royal Air Maroc’s commitment to delivering world-class service and connectivity.

Royal Air Maroc Expands Global Network with New Routes and Increased Frequencies

Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is set to significantly enhance its global network by expanding its operations from its Casablanca hub. With the launch of four new destinations starting in September, RAM is positioning itself as a key player in global air travel, with a focus on connecting key cities across Europe, Africa, and beyond. These strategic moves reflect the airline’s commitment to meeting growing demand while strengthening its connectivity for passengers traveling across continents.

New International Routes from Casablanca

Starting September 17, Royal Air Maroc will begin flights to Zurich, marking the first of its four new destinations. The airline will offer two flights per week on this route, providing convenient connections between Morocco and Switzerland. Zurich, known for its global financial sector and tourism attractions, will now be more accessible to Moroccan travelers and vice versa.

On the same day, RAM will also launch a new route to Ndjamena, the capital of Chad, expanding its African network. With two weekly departures, this new service is particularly tailored for business travelers and those looking to explore the region. The evening departures from Casablanca will help passengers traveling from Europe or North Africa to connect smoothly. On the return, flights will depart from Ndjamena early in the morning, ensuring that passengers can catch onward connections to Europe through Casablanca, thus maximizing convenience.

The expansion continues on September 18, with RAM offering two weekly flights to Sal Island, Cape Verde. This destination promises to cater to both leisure and business travelers, with late-night departures from Casablanca, ensuring ease of transfer to connecting flights. The return flights will take off in the early morning hours, again designed to optimize passenger connections with European flights.

Finally, starting on October 20, Royal Air Maroc will introduce a new service to Munich, Germany. This city is a key destination for business and tourism, and RAM will offer two weekly flights, further enhancing the airline’s European presence. Munich’s central location in Europe makes it an attractive hub for international travelers looking to connect to other parts of the continent.

Strengthening Connections to France

As part of its ongoing efforts to improve its services, Royal Air Maroc is also focusing on bolstering its connectivity between Morocco and France, one of its largest international markets. France remains the leading European source of visitors to Morocco, contributing 27.5% of all international arrivals in the past year. Recognizing the importance of this market, RAM is reintroducing several routes that were suspended in recent years.

On October 10, RAM will resume flights from Marrakech to Lyon and Toulouse. This marks a significant return to these French cities, which have long been popular with Moroccan travelers. Following this, on October 11, the airline will re-launch its Marrakech-Nantes route, and on October 12, services to Bordeaux will also be reinstated. These routes were previously suspended in 2017 and 2022, but RAM’s renewed commitment to France underscores the growing demand for direct connections between Morocco and France.

Each of these routes will operate two weekly flights, with RAM using its Boeing 737-800 aircraft to serve them. These flights will provide reliable and comfortable connections for travelers between Morocco and some of France’s most sought-after regions.

Increased Frequencies and Daily Paris Flights

In addition to the reintroduced routes, Royal Air Maroc will further enhance its service to France by increasing the frequency of flights to Marseilles. Starting October 27, RAM will add a third weekly flight between Marrakech and Marseilles, providing even more flexibility for travelers looking to visit southern France.

To further bolster its ties with France, RAM will offer a daily service between Marrakech and Paris Charles de Gaulle airport during the peak winter season. From December 16 to January 18, 2026, the airline will provide daily flights between the two cities, ensuring that passengers can travel between Morocco and France with ease. This increased frequency will undoubtedly appeal to both tourists and business travelers, as well as the Moroccan diaspora in France.

Conclusion

Royal Air Maroc is reaching a major milestone in global aviation by expanding its network with new direct flights to key European and African destinations. Starting in September, the airline will introduce four new routes from Casablanca, enhancing global connectivity and offering more convenient travel options between continents.



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