A nationwide strike in Portugal has caused major disruption for UK holidaymakers, with 658 flights cancelled on Wednesday, June 3. The walkout, called by multiple trade unions to protest proposed labour reforms, affected 44.7% of all scheduled flights to Portuguese airports.
Lisbon Airport was the hardest hit, with 408 of its 658 scheduled flights cancelled, representing 62% of operations. In Ponta Delgada, 41% of 118 flights were grounded, while Porto and Faro saw nearly a third of flights cancelled. Madeira experienced 23% cancellations, though most were notified in advance.
EasyJet warned passengers in advance of potential disruption, stating: 'Due to a national strike in Portugal on 3 June, like all airlines operating to and from the country we can expect some disruption to our flying programme.' The airline said it would contact affected customers directly with options. Ryanair reported it would not be affected.
The National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel (SNPAC) reported that 65% of its 508 scheduled flights were cancelled. The strikes, which also impacted public transport and other services, mark the second such action in six months against government labour reforms that would make it easier for companies to dismiss employees and outsource services.
