Portugal Airport Strikes: What Travelers Need to Know for Fall and Winter 2025

Published on August 31, 2025

A series of planned strikes will affect major airports across Portugal between September 2025 and January 2026, potentially causing significant disruptions to air travel. The strikes, organized by the Metallurgical and Related Industries Union (SIMA), are expected to impact flights in and out of Portugal’s busiest airports, including Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Madeira, and the Azores. These industrial actions will affect both tourists and business travelers, particularly during high-demand travel periods like long weekends, Christmas, and New Year.

The strikes will involve ground handling services provided by Menzies Aviation, which operates at several major Portuguese airports. As a result, travelers could experience flight delays, cancellations, and disruptions in airport services, including check-in and baggage handling.

Strike Schedule and Affected Airports

The strikes will be staggered over several months and will occur during key travel dates. The first round of walkouts will begin at midnight on September 3, 2025, and continue until midnight on September 9, 2025. Subsequent strikes will occur in the following periods:

• September 12 to 15
• September 19 to 22
• September 26 to 28
• October 3 to 6, 10 to 13, 17 to 20, 24 to 27, 31 to November 3
• November 7 to 10, 14 to 17, 21 to 24, 28 to December 1
• December 5 to 8, 12 to 15
• December 19, 2025 to January 2, 2026

These strike dates overlap with busy travel periods, including long weekends, Christmas, and New Year’s holidays, which could exacerbate the impact on travelers. Affected airports include Lisbon (LIS), Porto (OPO), Faro (FAO), Madeira (FNC), and the Azores. These airports are essential entry points for international travelers and handle a significant volume of flights, including those from the UK, Europe, and other parts of the world.

Reasons Behind the Strikes

The planned strikes are the result of an ongoing dispute between SIMA and Menzies Aviation regarding labor conditions and compensation for ground handling workers. The union is demanding several changes, including the following:

• Ending salaries below the national minimum wage of €870
• Night-shift pay compensation for workers who work overnight shifts
• Maintaining worker benefits, such as access to parking facilities
• Honoring previously signed labor agreements

The union has voiced concerns that paying workers below the national minimum wage is in violation of labor laws. Menzies Aviation, as a company involved with Portugal’s TAP Air (the flag carrier), has also been criticized for not adhering to previously agreed-upon terms. The union believes that these demands are crucial for ensuring fair treatment and proper working conditions for airport ground staff.

Despite the industrial action, the union has stated that essential services related to safety and equipment maintenance will continue to operate during the strike. However, non-essential services, including passenger services like check-in and baggage handling, will be impacted.

Potential Impact on Travelers

Travelers planning to visit Portugal during the strike periods can expect delays, cancellations, and possible disruptions in services at the affected airports. With strikes taking place over several months, including peak travel periods, this is likely to cause significant inconvenience for tourists, business travelers, and those simply transiting through Portugal.

The disruption could be particularly problematic for those traveling during long weekends, public holidays, and the Christmas and New Year season, as these are some of the busiest times at airports. Both international and domestic flights are likely to be impacted, with potential delays in check-in, security procedures, and baggage handling.

Recommendations for Travelers

To minimize the disruption caused by the airport strikes in Portugal, travelers are encouraged to take the following steps:

1. Check Flight Status Regularly: Before heading to the airport, check your flight status to confirm whether your flight is delayed or canceled. Most airlines provide real-time updates on their websites or through customer service.
2. Consider Alternative Airports: If possible, look into flying from or into alternative airports in neighboring countries, especially if you are transiting through Portugal. Nearby airports in Spain or France may be less affected by the strikes.
3. Arrive Early: Expect delays at check-in and security procedures. Arriving earlier than usual can help mitigate any additional delays or complications caused by the strike action.
4. Contact Airlines for Rebooking: If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, reach out to your airline to rebook your flight as soon as possible. Many airlines will offer alternative options for passengers affected by such disruptions.
5. Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers cancellations, delays, and other disruptions due to strikes. Travel insurance can help minimize the financial impact of unexpected events.
6. Stay Updated: Keep an eye on local news, official airport websites, and social media for the latest information regarding the strikes. This will allow you to adjust your plans accordingly.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Strikes

The ongoing strike action at Portuguese airports between September 2025 and January 2026 is a major concern for travelers, especially those planning vacations or business trips during peak travel seasons. Although the strikes are an unfortunate disruption, travelers can take steps to reduce the impact by planning ahead, staying informed, and considering alternative routes.

With advance preparation and a little flexibility, travelers can still enjoy their time in Portugal, whether for business or leisure. It’s essential to stay updated on the latest developments, as the strikes will continue to evolve over several months.