Key Points
- RMT union members representing around 1,800 Tube drivers will strike across six 24-hour periods in April, May, and June 2026.
- The first two strike dates are 21–22 April and 23–24 April, with further action planned for 19–20 May, 21–22 May, 16–17 June and 18–19 June.
- Each strike runs from midday to 11:59 am the following day, deliberately timed to hit two consecutive rush hours.
- The dispute centres on Transport for London’s proposal to introduce a compressed four-day working week for Tube drivers, which the RMT says raises serious concerns about fatigue and safety.
- TfL expects reduced but not fully suspended services, as ASLEF union drivers are not striking.
- North London lines, including the Northern, Victoria, Piccadilly, and the Overground, will all be affected.
- The March strikes were suspended following progress in talks, but the RMT confirmed all remaining dates are still active.
North London, (North London News) April 15, 2026 – North London commuters face significant disruption to their daily journeys from next week as the Rail, Maritime and Transport union confirms its members will proceed with a series of strikes across the London Underground. The first walkout begins on 21 April, just six days away.
The dispute stems from a TfL proposal to trial a compressed four-day working week for Tube drivers, which would see staff work their full 35 contracted hours across four days rather than five. The RMT argues this would result in dangerously long shifts of up to nine hours of active driving, with some starting as early as 3:45 am and finishing as late as 2:30 am. General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said the union had serious concerns about fatigue, safety, and work-life balance, and that the proposal had already been rejected by members.
TfL Transport Commissioner Andy Lord described the strikes as premature and unnecessary, stressing that participation in the four-day week trial would be voluntary and that no driver would lose contracted hours. The ASLEF union, which also represents drivers, has encouraged its members to accept the deal.
Well, for North London residents, the practical impact will be significant. Stations including King’s Cross, Finsbury Park, Archway, Highbury and Islington, Tottenham Court Road, Angel and Kilburn will all face severely reduced services from midday on strike days. TfL advises passengers to complete their journeys before midday where possible, and to consider alternative routes including the Elizabeth line, Overground, National Rail and bus services.
The strikes begin on Tuesday 21 April at midday. North London residents are urged to plan their travel in advance and check the TfL website for live updates as the dates approach.
