Air connectivity in the Canarian Archipelago faces a new scenario of uncertainty. The trade unions Unión Sindical de Controladores Aéreos (USCA) and Comisiones Obreras (CCOO) have formalized an indefinite strike notice that will directly affect operations at five airports across the islands.
The mobilization, directed against the air navigation service provider Saerco, is scheduled to commence on April 17 at 00:00 hours. The affected airfields in the insular area include those in Lanzarote (César Manrique), Fuerteventura, La Palma, El Hierro, and La Gomera. Nationally, the call extends to a total of 14 facilities, positioning the Canary Islands as one of the most exposed regions due to its high reliance on air transport.
The decision to go on strike is not the result of an isolated incident, but of a “structural problem.
According to the unions, the decision to call the strike stems from a “structural problem” in Saerco's management. They denounce a progressive deterioration of working conditions, resulting from years of staff reductions and constant workload. The strike notice, registered on April 6, details that the company has consistently decreased staff numbers without replacing vacancies, leading to a series of grievances among controllers.
Among the main concerns of the controllers are the cancellation of previously approved holidays, the “abusive” use of staff availability, short-notice shift changes, and a lack of clarity in rotas regarding mandatory rest periods. The unions warn that this situation compromises operational safety, as fatigue and stress are incompatible with a critical service like air traffic control.
Before resorting to this strike call, worker representatives attempted to establish dialogue, but claim that meetings with Saerco's management were repeatedly postponed or canceled. Given the lack of agreement, mandatory mediation has been requested from the Interconfederal Mediation and Arbitration Service (SIMA). However, if the company does not change its stance, the strike will begin as scheduled, potentially causing significant delays and cancellations in air traffic across the Canary Islands.
