Ground staff strike at Barcelona airport affects 6,000 cases and cancels 270 flights

The indefinite strike by Groundforce ground service workers at Barcelona airport has now been going on for two weeks, during the peak of the high season, causing severe effects on travelers.

According to data from the strike committee, around 6,000 suitcases have not reached their destination and around 270 flights have been canceled.

CGT spokesperson Esther Garcia regrets that the company has refused to negotiate "decent" working conditions and criticizes the loss of rights in recent years, with the arrival of a new management.

Workers warn of shortcomings in work-life balance, job security, and negative effects on workers' health.

The union spokesperson defends that the strike has been the last resort for frustrated workers, in the face of what they criticize as a passive attitude of the company.

Garcia says the last contact was made on July 24 in unsuccessful mediations.

For the CGT delegate, this lack of dialogue demonstrates the company's "lack of responsibility," due to the strike coinciding with the biggest holiday month.

However, Garcia warns that the strike will not be lifted unless there is a review of the health and safety conditions of the workforce.

She details that some measures are "non-negotiable," such as the introduction of prevention or inspection procedures, the resizing of work shifts, or the application of schedules that guarantee work-life balance and rest.

Despite the situation, the appearance in T1 of the airport is apparently normal. Travelers check in their luggage at departures and those who pass through the arrivals gate also come loaded with their suitcases, oblivious to the conflict that the handling company and its workers are experiencing.