Stansted airport strike 17–20 April 2026: what passengers need to know

If you’re flying from London Stansted between 17 and 20 April 2026, you may be facing disruptions. Passenger assistance workers at the airport have announced three days of strike action starting this Friday — and while this particular strike doesn’t entitle you to financial compensation, you do still have rights. Here’s what’s happening and what you’re entitled to.

Over 100 ABM passenger assistance workers at London Stansted Airport — employed by the ground services contractor ABM, not by the airlines — have announced a strike covering all shifts from Friday 17th April through to Monday 20th April 2026. The action is being organised by Unite the Union, in a dispute over pay. Workers voted 97% in favour of strike action after rejecting ABM’s pay offer.

The airlines most exposed to disruptions are Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Jet2, and TUI — all of which operate significant numbers of flights from Stansted. Even passengers who don’t need assistance may be affected, as delays to assisted boarding can have knock-on effects across departures throughout the day.

Not in this case. Because the strike involves third-party airport workers — not the airline’s own employees — it’s classed as extraordinary circumstances under UK air passenger rights law. That means airlines aren’t legally required to pay compensation for disruption caused by this strike.

This is different from a strike by the airline’s own staff (such as pilots or cabin crew), which would typically entitle you to claim. If you’re not sure whether your flight disruption qualifies for compensation, you can check your rights on our UK air passenger rights page.

Even when compensation isn’t owed, airlines are still required to look after you if your flight is significantly delayed or cancelled. Under UK law, your airline must provide:

• Meals and refreshments after a delay of 2 or more hours.

• Hotel accommodation if an overnight stay becomes necessary.

• Transport between the airport and your accommodation.

• Two free phone calls, emails, or faxes so you can contact people.

If your flight is cancelled, you’re also entitled to either a full refund or a replacement flight to your destination — it’s your choice.

Keep any receipts for food, drink, or accommodation you pay for while waiting. If the airline doesn’t provide care directly, you may be able to claim those costs back.

What should I do at the airport?

Even if your flight runs on time, Stansted is likely to be busier and more disrupted than usual between 17th and 20th April. A few things worth doing:

• Check in online in advance to save time at the airport.

• Arrive earlier than usual — allow extra time for queues and any delays.

• Check your flight status directly with your airline before leaving home.

• If you’re travelling with someone who needs assistance, contact your airline in advance to confirm arrangements.

Know your rights before you fly

Flight disruption is stressful enough without having to figure out your rights on the spot. Our guide to UK air passenger rights breaks down exactly what you’re owed in plain language — whether your flight is delayed, cancelled, or you’re denied boarding.

And while this strike doesn’t qualify for compensation, it’s worth knowing that many other types of disruption do. If you’ve experienced a delay or cancellation in the past three years that wasn’t caused by extraordinary circumstances, you could still be owed up to £520. AirHelp can check your eligibility in minutes, with no upfront cost.

Check your rights at airhelp.co.uk/uk-261/.