Spanish airline group Iberia has been forced to cancel 461 flights due to a four-day ground handlers’ strike.

The strikes, taking place from 5-8 January, have affected flights by Iberia, Iberia Express and Air Nostrum.

The group confirmed that it had cancelled 270 flights operated by Iberia, 64 by Iberia Express, and 127 by Air Nostrum due to the strike by three unions, CCOO, UGT and USO.

The strike is expected to affect more than 45,000 passengers as it coincides with the busy Three Kings holiday in Spain.

Iberia said it will be able to operate three-quarters of its schedule during the industrial action, including almost all long-haul flights, especially those operated by Level.

Of the 270 cancelled Iberia flights, 51% are domestic and 49% are European.

Iberia Express and Air Nostrum plan to operate 88% and 72% of their flights.

Passengers booked to travel on strike dates are being given the option to change their plans, even if their flights are unaffected.