The recent wave of strikes across Greece has caused significant disruption to flights, transporting networks, and tourism services, leaving many UK holidaymakers facing uncertainty. With thousands of flights disrupted, the widespread labour unrest is unfolding at a critical time for travel between the UK and Greece, a popular destination for British tourists.
This article explores the causes and effects of the strikes, the scale of flight cancellations, airlines’ responses, and vital travel advice for UK passengers caught up in these disruptions. The piece aims to provide clear guidance to help travellers navigate the evolving situation while explaining the broader context of Greece’s labour unrest.
Background to the Strikes in Greece
The strikes stem from a national wave of industrial action called by Greece’s largest unions, including GSEE and ADEDY. Workers in key sectors such as air traffic control, public transport, and government services have protested government plans to introduce longer workdays of up to 13 hours, alongside stricter discipline and penalties for employees.
The strike actions began intensifying in late September and early October 2025, coinciding with Greece’s peak travel season. The protest has been described as one of the most extensive nationwide walkouts in recent years, affecting virtually all modes of transport—including airports, ferries, trains, metros, buses, and taxis.
The scale of the strikes indicates deep-rooted discontent with proposed labour reforms seen by many workers as a threat to job security and working conditions. The government has defended the reforms as necessary modernization for economic competitiveness but faces strong opposition from unions and workers.
Flight Disruptions and Cancellations: The Latest Figures
Thousands of flights to and from Greece in November 2025 have been impacted by strike-related disruptions. According to industry reports, there have been hundreds of flight delays and around 19 cancellations reported across major UK airports serving Greece, including London Heathrow, Manchester, and Glasgow.
Jet2 has been among the airlines providing detailed notices to customers. They warned that flights to popular Greek destinations such as Rhodes, Crete, and Kos might leave earlier than scheduled—some by up to 90 minutes—as a precaution to minimise stranded passengers. The airline urged travellers to arrive earlier for check-in to avoid missing flights.
Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air, key Greek carriers, initially planned to operate as normal while monitoring court decisions affecting strike participation by air traffic controllers. However, delays of 30-40 minutes during peak hours at Athens International Airport highlight ongoing challenges in airspace management due to limited air traffic control capacity.
Broader Impact on Travel Beyond Flights
The cancellations and delays extend far beyond flights. The general strike has paralyzed other transport services crucial for tourists. Ferry services connecting Greek islands have halted, stranding holidaymakers on popular islands such as Santorini and Mykonos.
Local taxi availability is severely reduced, with fares reportedly surging due to demand spikes. Public transport systems in Athens and Thessaloniki, including trains, buses, and metro lines, have been disrupted or shut down entirely during the strike period. This cascading effect has complicated onward travel plans for those hoping to island-hop or reach remote areas.
For UK travellers, this means planning a trip to Greece now requires considering not only potential flight cancellations but also disruptions to local transport networks essential for transfers after arrival.
Official Travel Advice for UK Passengers
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued clear travel advice warning of potential disruptions. They advise travellers to regularly check their flight status with airlines and expect possible delays at airports.
The FCDO stresses that strikes may be called at short notice, affecting air travel, buses, trains, ferries, and taxis. Travellers are encouraged to prepare for delays and have contingency plans, especially when transferring between airports and ferry terminals.
Insurance experts recommend keeping all cancellation documentation and receipts, as claims may be necessary due to delays and additional costs. They also suggest prioritising direct flights over routes requiring multiple transfers that involve local transport vulnerable to disruption.
UK airlines are communicating proactively with customers. Jet2, for example, has emphasised it is doing everything possible to operate scheduled flights but advises passengers to arrive early and stay informed of updates on official airline platforms.
Economic and Tourism Sector Effects
The strikes have hit Greece’s vital tourist industry hard. With many flights affected and transport networks halted, visitor access to key tourist sites and accommodations has been impaired.
Local businesses dependent on tourism, including restaurants and shops, report reduced footfall and revenue losses. Industry experts warn that prolonged strikes could discourage visitors in the long term, impacting Greece’s economic recovery from recent global challenges.
Travel finance bodies highlight how increased costs from last-minute travel changes and scarce local transport are placing a financial strain on families and business travellers alike.
Expert Insights and Future Outlook
Labour experts note that Greece’s strike wave reflects profound employer-employee tensions over working conditions. They see the government’s push for longer hours but stricter discipline as a flashpoint likely to trigger further unrest unless resolved through negotiation.
Air travel analysts suggest that while airlines are working hard to minimise disruption, ongoing air traffic control participation in strikes may lead to further delays and cancellations over coming weeks.
The likelihood of new labour disputes in late 2025 means UK travellers should prepare for an uncertain and potentially turbulent travel environment when flying to Greece, particularly during peak periods.
Practical Tips for UK Travellers Heading to Greece
If you are planning a trip, follow these essential tips:
- Check flight times and status frequently, as some departures may be rescheduled earlier.
- Arrive at the airport well in advance, considering earlier check-in openings.
- Monitor ferry schedules closely, as many operators are suspending services temporarily.
- Avoid complicated itineraries requiring multiple transport changes vulnerable to strike action.
- Keep travel insurance updated and retain proof of any cancellations for claims.
- Stay informed via UK government travel advice portals and airline communications.
- Consider direct flights to islands if island-hopping plans are affected by ferry suspensions.
These steps can reduce travel stress and financial risk during the ongoing strike disruptions.
FAQs
Q1: Are international flights between the UK and Greece being cancelled due to the strikes?
A1: Most international flights are expected to operate, but some airlines have rescheduled timings. Delays and some cancellations are possible. Always check with your airline before travelling.
Q2: How long will the Greece strikes last?
A2: The main nationwide strike occurred on 1 October 2025, but follow-up disruptions from strikes in specific sectors might continue unpredictably. Travel plans should remain flexible.
Q3: Will public transport in Greece be affected during the strikes?
A3: Yes, strikes affect buses, trains, metros, taxis, and ferries. Local transport disruptions are widespread, and services can be suspended for 24 hours or more.
Q4: What should UK passengers do if their flight is cancelled?
A4: Contact your airline immediately for rebooking options or refunds. Keep receipts and written confirmation for insurance claims. Stay updated with official airline channels.
Q5: Is UK Government issuing travel warnings about Greece?
A5: The FCDO advises travellers to consider disruption risks from strikes and to monitor travel updates regularly. They also recommend confirming all bookings before departure.
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