Miguel Praga

🛩️ UGT vs. Ryanair: On August 23-24, UGT plans strikes in 24 Spanish airports, including Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia, due to stalled negotiations with Azul Handling. Prior strikes on August 15-17 saw no disruptions as Ryanair allegedly circumvented the effects by enhancing staffing and altering shifts. UGT argues these actions violate the right to strike and highlight issues like mass sanctions and fraudulent contracts affecting worker stability. Menzies staff may also join the protests.

🛩️ Air Europa, a financially precarious airline, has survived numerous crises since its inception. Following 9/11, it was allowed to cut costs, saving the company. Hidalgo's management secured crucial investments, including a €50 million deal with IAG in 2019 and a recent deal with Turkish Airlines for €300 million. Despite the pandemic, Air Europa continues to find financial lifelines, while maintaining ownership control, showcasing resilience and strategic maneuvering in the airline industry.

✈️ Air Canada staff have been on strike for four days, halting all flights and affecting 500,000 customers. The government of Mark Carney and courts face challenges as unions defy orders to return to work by Monday noon. Negotiations have resumed, but no compensation is offered for affected passengers. Employees demand pay for all tasks, not just when the plane moves. Air Canada proposes a 38% raise, but unions argue it's only a 17% increase over four years.

📰 Javier Castillo, the general director of Ávoris's wholesale division, expressed satisfaction with Ávoris Store's reception. Launched nearly a year ago, it aims to prevent sales loss to rival operators and streamline Globalia brand integration. Castillo reported sustained sales growth, especially among independent agencies, attributing it to enhanced technology, training, and support. Ávoris Store facilitates efficient operations for brands like Travelplan and Catai and automates sales processes, reducing reliance on external tour operators.

🏢 Club de Vacaciones, a Grupo Viajes El Corte Inglés operator, launched competitive travel deals for seniors over 60 in July 2024, challenging Spain's state-backed Imserso program. Costs for coastal trips start at €189 but are shorter. Prices: €239 (without transport), €354 (with transport). Imserso charges €224.63 (no transport) and €244.04 (with transport), plus €100 in high season. In Canarias, Club offers €505, and €480 in Baleares, while Imserso charges €378 and €285.29, respectively, with potential €200 extra fees.

✈️ Air Canada faced a total shutdown on Sunday and Monday, defying Canadian government orders for cabin crew to return to work. The CUPE instructed members to stay off duty, leading to just a few flights operating. Approximately 240 flights were canceled on Sunday, affecting Air Canada Rouge as well. The labor agreement has been under negotiation for eight months, with the previous contract expiring on March 31. Normal operations may resume by Monday afternoon, albeit uncertainly.