During the Christmas/New Year season, there may be strikes in a number of UK industries, including public transportation, hospitals, and ambulance services.
The UK Border Force will likewise be on strike from December 23 to December 31. Affected airports include Birmingham, Cardiff, Gatwick, Heathrow, Glasgow, Manchester, and the port of New Haven. Keep up with local guidance and prepare for delays.
On December 16 and 17 there will be a nationwide strike across the UK rail network. Although the strike does not affect Eurostar staff, it will have an impact on timetables, as service hours have been reduced on UK rail lines, including the high-speed line they use. It will also impact Eurostar’s first departures on December 15.
Security staff at Eurostar will strike on 16, 18, 22 and 23 December. Eurostar operates passenger rail services linking London to Paris and other European capitals.
Workers on Abellio bus services in the capital are currently striking. Action had also been planned on Metroline services. Routes affected by the Abellio strike action are mostly in west and south London. They will be on the following dates: 16 December and 17 December. Consider using alternative modes of transportation. Reconfirm bus schedules. Allow additional time to reach destinations if operating in the affected area.
We have been notified of forthcoming 48 hour strikes which will affect the network nationally on the following dates: 16,17 and from 24 until 27 December. This is likely to affect most train companies across Britain. The rail industry is working hard to minimise the effect that this will have on services but it is inevitable that services will be cancelled or severely disrupted. It is likely that there will be a very limited service on these days with no trains at all on some routes. Services may also start later on days following the end of the strike action.
Baggage handlers have voted to strike from 16 December. The 72-hour strike action will affect flights operated by 10 major airlines from Heathrow Terminals 2, 3 and 4.
All passengers should check the latest advice from their operators before travelling. Allow extra time for airport and port check-in and security control. Ensure all passport and visa documentation is in order and prepare for longer lines at passport checks.