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Ouigo, a high-speed rail company in Spain, is facing a potential holiday travel disruption as its drivers call for six strike days around the autumn long weekends. The first walkout is scheduled for Friday October 30, impacting routes from Madrid and Barcelona to Alicante, Málaga, Murcia, and Sevilla. This follows four partial strikes planned for Friday November 6, Monday November 9, Friday December 4, and Tuesday December 8.

The Sindicato de Maquinistas Semaf, representing the majority of Ouigo's drivers, has accused the company of breaching collective agreement terms regarding working hours, rest periods, and holiday policies. The union claims excessively long shifts, insufficient rest, and difficulties in taking holidays, leading to drivers working long hours without adequate rest or compensation.

While the agreement is currently valid until the end of 2027, the union's stance has sparked previous strikes in 2025, which were resolved with a new deal. Ouigo, a subsidiary of French state railway SNCF, has stated it respects the right to strike and is open to further negotiations to find a mutually beneficial solution. However, minimum services have not been determined yet, though during a nationwide rail strike in February, 73% of high-speed and long-distance services were ordered to run.

Passengers holding tickets for strike days should monitor Ouigo's emails and app for updates on cancellations or alternative arrangements.