Holidaymakers have been warned that flights to two popular European destinations face major disruption as unions announce widespread strikes. In Portugal, a general strike on June 3 against labour reforms is expected to cause significant airport disruption, with reports suggesting up to 500 flights could be cancelled. EasyJet has warned of disruptions, while TAP and SATA are allowing free rebooking. The strike involves cabin crew, ground staff, and air traffic controllers, and is also expected to affect trains, ferries, metros, and buses.
Portugal Strike Details
Portugal’s general strike on June 3 is set to impact airports severely. The Civil Aviation Pilots’ Union (SPAC) has decided not to participate this time, but the National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Crew (SNPVAC) and ground staff union Sitava have joined. The CGTP called the strike after failed negotiations with the government over labour law changes. Airlines are contacting affected passengers, and TAP and SATA are offering free rebooking. The hospitality sector has expressed deep concern, warning of further losses due to border control issues.
Italy Strike Details
Meanwhile, Italy faces a 24-hour nationwide transport strike from 9pm on May 28 to 9pm on May 29. The walkout will hit rail services, airports, metro systems, buses, and regional transport. Unions representing major rail operators like Trenitalia, Trenord, and Italo have confirmed industrial action, sparking fears of cancellations and delays on key routes between Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, Bologna, and Naples. Protected commuter windows are in place from 6am to 9am and 6pm to 9pm, with guaranteed services operating during those times. Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority confirmed flights are protected between 7am and 10am and 6pm and 9pm.
EasyJet has stated it is assessing the potential impact and will contact affected customers directly. The airline is doing everything possible to minimise disruption. The Portuguese Hotel and Restaurant Association has called for urgent suspension of the EU Entry/Exit System until September to ease border queues. The Federation of Transport and Communications Unions has also supported the strike, along with unions for teachers, architects, doctors, nurses, and journalists.
