Airport support staff push for early retirement in Spain

Airport support staff in Spain could retire earlier: CCOO and UGT are pushing for a lower pension age for workers who move loads, work outdoors and cover shifts. The unions have filed a request with Spain’s Directorate-General for the Regulation of Social Security, Europa Press reported from Madrid on 3 November 2026. Their request seeks to start the process for auxiliary service agents in airport ground handling; no lower retirement age has been approved.

Why unions say the work takes a toll

The unions say the job brings risks that cannot be removed entirely. Alongside load handling, outdoor work and shifts, they cite contact with physical, toxic, chemical and cancer-causing agents. They say workers often develop chronic muscle and joint injuries, which hit older staff particularly hard.

The unions also point to National Social Security Institute data showing a rise in temporary incapacity cases at major companies in the sector. They give no figures, but note that the increase comes as activity across Spain’s aviation market has grown sharply.

Employers decline to join the bid

The employers’ group ASEATA has not backed the request, despite being asked by the unions. CCOO and UGT say they hope that refusal will not affect the decision. They plan to keep working on the legal requirements and negotiating for an earlier retirement age.

Topics: Jobs & labour · Health

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com