Etihad Flights Halt Portugal Services as National Strike Disrupts Travel

Published on December 11, 2025

A nationwide strike in Portugal has stopped air travel and public services, prompting Etihad Airways to suspend its Lisbon flights on December 11, 2025. Tourists travelling through the country now face widespread delays and limited local mobility as the industrial action affects major transport operations.

Etihad Airways confirmed that its daily Abu Dhabi–Lisbon rotation would not operate on December 11. The cancelled services include flight EY099 to Lisbon and the return service EY100 to Abu Dhabi. The airline linked the disruption to the national strike affecting all airlines at Lisbon Airport. The carrier advised passengers to update their contact information through its official website. This step is meant to support travellers needing revised plans or real-time notifications. Etihad stated that guest safety and comfort remained the central priority during the disruption. Its teams continued to assist passengers whose itineraries required changes.

The suspension affects tourists using Lisbon as an entry point into Portugal. It also impacts connecting journeys for travellers passing through the airport on the same date. The strike’s timing created added uncertainty for visitors planning travel during the holiday season.

National Industrial Action Brings Major Services to a Halt

Portugal is experiencing its first general strike since 2013. The action has been driven by the country’s two main union groups, CGTP and UGT. Workers from several sectors have joined the movement.

Teachers, healthcare workers, municipal staff, and transport operators participated in the walkout. Their involvement caused significant slowdowns across public services nationwide. Local transit operations were heavily affected, reducing mobility for visitors in key cities.

In aviation, the civil aviation union SNPVAC played a major role in the strike’s impact. SNPVAC represents more than 5,000 cabin crew members across TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair, easyJet, and Azores Airlines. Their participation led to heavy disruptions at both Lisbon and Porto airports. Many travellers experienced delays or cancellations due to reduced staffing and limited flight operations.

The strike also revealed pressure points on important European air routes. International airlines operating in Portugal had to adjust schedules as labour actions expanded. Tourists passing through the country faced uncertain travel timelines during the event.

Travel Realities for Tourists During Major Transport Disruptions

Large-scale aviation strikes often reshape tourist experiences. Visitors depend on predictable flight schedules and stable public transport systems. When those systems pause, trip planning becomes more complex.

Travellers may need to monitor airline notices frequently. They might also adjust routes to reduce the chance of missed connections. Tourists often prefer flexible itineraries during periods of national labour action. Clear communication from carriers becomes essential for smooth passenger movement. Such events highlight the value of updated contact details and prompt airline alerts.

Impact on Traveller Movement Across Portugal

The national strike created uncertainty for those entering or leaving Portugal on December 11. Tourists arriving that day encountered limited airport services and reduced staffing. Departing passengers also faced challenges as many flights experienced schedule changes. Some travellers had connecting flights through Lisbon or Porto. Even passengers not flying with airlines directly involved in the strike felt the effects. Airport congestion and reduced operations contributed to slower processing times.

Tourists were advised to check flight status updates. They also needed to review travel advisories issued during the strike. These steps helped visitors manage expectations and adapt plans when needed.

The event demonstrated how national labour movements can influence travel patterns. Portugal’s widespread participation created ripple effects across the aviation network. Foreign carriers operating in the country had to respond to the fast-changing situation.

Airline Guidance for Affected Passengers

Etihad urged travellers to confirm contact details via etihad.com/contactme. This process allowed guests to receive schedule changes quickly. The airline apologised for the inconvenience caused to passengers on this route. The carrier continued to monitor conditions in Portugal. Its teams supported guests who needed alternative arrangements during the disruption. Passengers were reminded to stay updated through official channels. This ensured they had the latest information on flight status and travel advisories.

Tourists travelling through Portugal benefited from these direct updates. Such communication helped reduce confusion during a challenging travel period. The guidance allowed passengers to plan the next steps of their journeys safely.

Image Source: AI