Delays in Spanish aviation as controllers call in sick (Roundup)

Jul 19, 2010, 13:00 GMT

Barcelona - An alleged unofficial strike action by air controllers was Monday delaying flights in Spain.

The daily El Pais internet edition reported delays of up to one hour in flights from Barcelona, Alicante and Palma de Majorca to Madrid.

Delays of up to two hours were reported at Barcelona airport.

Eighteen of the 53 Barcelona air controllers, who are responsible for air traffic in the north-east and in the Balearic Islands, took sick leave, sources of the airport managing company Aena said.

Even more delays occurred for similar reasons over the weekend.

The air controllers' union USCA denied that its members were on an unofficial strike, but said 'abusive' working hours had placed many of them under so much stress that they were forced to take sick leave.

Infrastructure Minister Jose Blanco has threatened to take legal action against the air controllers for causing 'serious damage' to the country.

The tourism professionals' association Mesa de Turismo accused the air controllers of 'sabotaging' Spain's tourism sector, which has been affected by the economic crisis, during the high season.

The air controllers have staged a series of apparent work-to-rule protests for months over their working conditions and pay. The government has slashed their wages, which were among the highest in Europe.