London Tube strikes to disrupt Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted travel. The May and June 2026 dates flyers should check

London Underground strikes have been confirmed for several dates in May and June 2026, with major disruption expected on routes serving Heathrow Airport and central London affecting travel between the UK and Spain during this period. Transport for London has warned that some lines could close completely during parts of the strikes, while alternative services including the Elizabeth line and Heathrow Express will likely become chaotically busier.

What dates are the disruptions

Transport unions have confirmed strike action affecting the London Underground network during the following dates. May 19, 20, 21 and 22. June 16, 17, 18 and 19

The strikes are linked to an ongoing dispute between transport unions and Transport for London over proposed staffing and rostering changes.

TfL has warned that some Tube lines may close entirely during parts of the strike action, while others could run with limited services. The Piccadilly line, one of the main Underground routes to Heathrow Airport, is expected to be among the worst affected.

The industrial action is scheduled from midday to midday, which means disruption may continue across several days as services gradually restart.

What this means for passengers flying between Spain and London

Thousands of British residents and holiday makers regularly fly through Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton airports when travelling between Spain and the UK. Passengers arriving from Spain could face longer transfer times once they land in London.

Heathrow is expected to be the most heavily affected airport because many passengers normally rely on the Piccadilly line to reach terminals. Travellers may instead need to use the Elizabeth line, Heathrow Express, airport coaches or taxis, all of which are expected to become much busier during strike periods.

London City Airport could also see disruption because many passengers depend on Underground and DLR connections through central London.

Gatwick, Stansted and Luton airports are expected to operate more normally because they rely mainly on National Rail services rather than the Tube network itself. However, passengers could still face delays reaching stations such as Victoria, Liverpool Street and St Pancras because of overcrowding across central London.

What you should check

Passengers travelling through London during the strike dates should take practical steps before travelling.

• Check your flight time and airport transfer plans in advance.
• Leave significantly earlier than normal for Heathrow journeys.
• Consider using the Elizabeth line instead of the Piccadilly line.
• Pre-book airport coaches or taxis where possible.
• Monitor Transport for London travel updates before departure.
• Consider staying overnight near the airport if travelling early morning.

Which London airports are likely to be most affected

Will Heathrow Airport stay open during the Tube strikes

Yes. Heathrow Airport will continue operating normally, but passengers may struggle reaching terminals because of transport disruption across London.

Are more Tube strikes expected later in summer

No further dates have been officially confirmed yet for July or August 2026. However, the dispute between unions and TfL remains unresolved, meaning additional strike action remains possible.

Does this affect tourists visiting London

Yes. Tourists arriving from Spain and other international destinations may face delays using the Underground network, especially around Heathrow and central London.

If you are travelling between Spain and London this May and June please check TfL updates regularly and allow additional time for airport journeys.