Tube driver strikes are set to cripple services once again this week, with the London Underground lines most affected by the walkouts now confirmed. Drivers will stage two 24-hour strikes from midday on Tuesday, May 19, and midday on Thursday, May 21, causing widespread disruption.
Lines Expected to Be Hit Hardest
Transport for London (TfL) has warned of severe impacts, with some lines completely out of service and others running with major delays. No service is expected on the Piccadilly and Circle lines. The Metropolitan line between Baker Street and Aldgate, as well as the Central line between White City and Liverpool Street, are likely to be shut.
The Piccadilly line has the highest proportion of drivers belonging to the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT). The Circle line and parts of the Metropolitan and Central lines may close to protect services on busier sections of the network.
Previous Strike Impact
During the last RMT strike in April, the Piccadilly line ran with severe delays for most of the walkout, while the Northern Line operated but finished early.
Dispute Over Working Hours
Drivers currently earn about £80,000 per year for a 36-hour week spread over five days. TfL is proposing a new opt-in pattern of 35 hours over four days, a deal accepted by rival union ASLEF. However, the RMT has rejected it, citing concerns over driver fatigue and passenger safety.
The RMT is demanding a 32-hour, four-day week with the same salary, along with changes to shift patterns and depot transfers. TfL’s chief operating officer called the proposal “unaffordable,” estimating costs in the tens of millions. Last week, the RMT accused TfL of “breaking promises” over negotiations, claiming the authority has not engaged in talks despite prior commitments.
Strike Timetable
- Tuesday, May 19 and Thursday, May 21: Normal service until mid-morning, then disruption from midday, with services ending early.
- Wednesday, May 20 and Friday, May 22: Disruption in the morning with later start times, improving through the afternoon to normal service by evening.
Upcoming Strike Dates
- May 19–20
- May 21–22
- June 16–17
- June 18–19
