Germany Joins Italy, France, New Zealand, and Belgium in Major Mid-February Travel Crisis

Germany has joined Italy, France, New Zealand, and Belgium in a significant travel crisis this February, as widespread airline and airport strikes disrupt global tourism. The industrial action stems from disputes over wages, working conditions, and pension benefits. With Lufthansa, Air New Zealand, and several major European airports facing serious operational challenges, thousands of flights are at risk of cancellation, leaving travelers stranded and local economies facing potential losses.

February 2026 is emerging as one of the most turbulent months for international travel, as coordinated strikes across the aviation and transport sectors create widespread disruption. Airports, rail systems, and local transport networks are all expected to face operational strain, particularly during a peak winter travel period.

Mid-February Travel Peak Faces Severe Disruptions

The timing of these strikes is especially critical. Mid-February marks a high season for winter holidays, ski tourism, and international travel. As unions push for improved pay, better working conditions, and stronger pension arrangements, airlines and transport systems are preparing for major interruptions.

Travelers across affected regions are bracing for delays, cancellations, and logistical challenges at airports and transport hubs.

A Widespread International Strike Movement

The current crisis extends beyond a single country. Industrial actions are taking place across Europe and in New Zealand, involving pilots, cabin crew, air traffic controllers, and public transport workers. The scale of these coordinated efforts makes this one of the most significant travel disruptions in recent years.

Germany: Lufthansa Strike Triggers Nationwide Disruption

Germany is facing a major aviation strike on 12 February 2026, as Lufthansa pilots and flight attendants represented by the Vereinigung Cockpit (VC) and UFO unions plan a 24-hour walkout. The action follows months of negotiations over wages, pension contributions, and working conditions.

Expected Impact in Germany

Significant flight cancellations and delays, particularly on long-haul routes
Major disruption at Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, and Stuttgart airports
Severe impact on Lufthansa Cargo and freight operations

Germany’s busiest airports are expected to experience substantial operational challenges throughout the day.

Italy: National Aviation Strike on 16 February

Italy will experience a 24-hour nationwide aviation strike on 16 February 2026. Pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff are participating in the industrial action, affecting airlines including ITA Airways and easyJet.

Expected Impact in Italy

Cancellations at major airports in Milan, Rome, Venice, and Naples
Long-haul flights to and from the United States and Asia most affected
Significant disruption to European and domestic routes

Short-haul domestic travel is expected to experience the most immediate impact.

France: Air Traffic Control Strike Disrupts Early February Travel

France’s air traffic controllers and unionized airport workers staged a nationwide strike on 8–9 February 2026. The action resulted in hundreds of flight cancellations and delays.

Expected Impact in France

Severe disruptions at Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly, Marseille, and regional airports
Domestic and European routes heavily affected
Long-haul flights less impacted compared to short- and medium-haul services

Travelers have been advised to monitor flight updates and prepare for possible schedule changes.

Belgium: Transport Strikes Affect Airport Access

Belgium is experiencing nationwide transport strikes on 5, 10, and 12 February 2026. Unions representing public transport workers are protesting pension reforms and wage policies.

Although primarily focused on buses, trams, and metro services, the strikes are expected to disrupt airport access and urban mobility in Brussels, Liège, and Antwerp.

Expected Impact in Belgium

Major interruptions to local and regional public transport
Disruption to rail, tram, and bus services
Delays in airport access, particularly at Brussels Airport
Possible flight delays due to staffing and transport challenges

New Zealand: Air New Zealand Cabin Crew Strike

In New Zealand, Air New Zealand cabin crew represented by the Flight Attendants’ Association of New Zealand (FAANZ) are holding a two-day strike on 12–13 February 2026. The dispute centers on wage increases and improved conditions for long-haul crew members.

Expected Impact in New Zealand

Cancellations on long-haul routes to North America and Asia
Approximately 16,000 passengers affected
Domestic and regional services less likely to face disruption

Key Strike Dates and Disruptions Overview

Germany

Date: 12 February 2026
Time: 00:01 – 23:59 (local)
Impact: Lufthansa operations, Frankfurt and Munich airports, cargo services, widespread cancellations

Italy

Date: 16 February 2026
Time: 00:01 – 23:59 (local)
Impact: ITA Airways, easyJet, major airports including Milan and Rome

France

Date: 8–9 February 2026
Time: 00:00 – 23:59 (local)
Impact: Air traffic control disruptions, especially Paris-Orly and Marseille

Belgium

Dates: 5, 10, 12 February 2026
Time: 00:01 – 23:59 (local)
Impact: Public transport shutdowns affecting airport access

New Zealand

Dates: 12–13 February 2026
Time: 00:01 – 23:59 (local)
Impact: Air New Zealand long-haul route cancellations

Impact on Global Travel and Tourism

The combined effect of these strikes is expected to significantly disrupt international travel and tourism in February 2026.

Flight Cancellations and Passenger Disruptions

Airlines including Lufthansa and Air New Zealand are expected to cancel numerous flights. Airports may experience overcrowded terminals, long queues, and overbooked rebooking services as passengers seek alternative arrangements.

Economic Impact on Tourism-Dependent Regions

Countries such as Italy, France, and Belgium, which rely heavily on tourism, may face economic strain. Hotels, tour operators, and local businesses in major cities including Rome, Paris, and Brussels could see reduced visitor numbers. Winter tourism destinations, particularly ski resorts, may also experience booking cancellations.

Limited Alternative Transport Options

While some travelers may turn to trains, buses, or car rentals, transport strikes in Belgium and France could complicate these alternatives. Rail services may face heavy congestion, making advanced planning essential.

How Travelers Can Prepare

To reduce disruption during this period, travelers are advised to:

Check flight status regularly through airline websites and apps
Choose flexible ticket options when possible
Arrive early at airports to account for delays
Arrange backup transport plans where feasible
Sign up for airline and transport alerts via email or SMS

A Challenging Period for Global Travel

Germany’s entry into this wave of industrial action alongside Italy, France, Belgium, and New Zealand signals one of the most disruptive periods for global travel in recent memory. As disputes over wages, working conditions, and pensions continue, mid-February 2026 is expected to bring widespread cancellations and operational strain.

With major airlines and airport systems under pressure, travelers worldwide face uncertainty, while tourism-reliant economies brace for financial impact. Remaining informed and flexible will be essential as the situation unfolds.