Portugal strike: TAP Air, Etihad Airways, easyJet and Emirates cancel flights amid national walkout - affecting Lisbon and Porto airports
Multiple airlines are cancelling flights and re-adjusting their flight schedules due to a national strike taking place in Portugal today.
The strike, organised by the country’s two largest union confederations, CGTP and UGT, has brought public services, transportation, and air travel to a standstill. This walkout is aimed at opposing proposed labor reforms that unions argue threaten workers’ rights and job security.
It has directly impacted several airlines, including Etihad Airways. The strike has caused massive operational disruptions at Lisbon Portela International Airport, with widespread delays and cancellations affecting both international and domestic services.
Etihad Airways announced the cancellation of its flights between Abu Dhabi and Lisbon today in response to the widespread industrial action. The airline’s service EY099 from Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport to Lisbon Portela International Airport, along with the return flight EY100, has been disrupted.
Affected carriers also include TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair, easyJet, and Azores Airlines, all of which have been forced to adjust their schedules. The SNPVAC, the civil aviation union representing over 5,000 cabin crew members, has announced a walkout, exacerbating the situation.
The strike has led to significant operational disruptions at both Lisbon and Porto airport. Emirates has cancelled all scheduled services to and from Lisbon today.
Four flights have been suspended: EK191 and EK193 from Dubai to Lisbon, and the return services EK192 and EK194 from Lisbon to Dubai. The airline advised affected travellers who booked directly with Emirates to contact its customer service for alternative travel options, while those who made bookings through travel agencies should reach out to their agents for rebooking assistance. “We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers,” Emirates said in a statement.
According to European Regulation 261/2004, passengers affected by flight cancellations or delays are entitled to refunds or rebooking, as well as assistance (meals, accommodation) depending on the length of the delay. The compensation situation varies depending on the nature of the strike (airline staff vs. airport staff).