Portugal Faces Massive Travel Chaos On December 11, 2025, as Nationwide General Strike Grounds Flights and Disrupts Public Transport Systems: Here’s What You Need To Know

Published on November 25, 2025

Portugal is set to experience general unrest and extensive travel disarray on December 11, 2025, in anticipation of general strikes and public service disruptions. Grounded flights and public transport cancelations are expected to occur as well. Strikes will be called by the Portuguese National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel (SNPVAC), to hinder and cancel flights with major carriers, most severely with TAP Air Portugal and Azores Airlines. Aviation disruptions will also close public transport systems, schools, and many public service organizations, escalating the frustration of holiday travelers and citizens.

On December 11, 2025, travelers planning to fly to or from Portugal should prepare for significant disruption, with widespread flight cancellations and severe delays expected across the country. The warning comes ahead of a nationwide general strike, which is set to cripple operations at all major Portuguese airports, including Lisbon and Porto.

The strike, called by the SNPVAC (Portuguese National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel), is expected to disrupt air travel across Portugal, leaving many passengers stranded or facing considerable delays. This move is part of a larger industrial action affecting various public sectors throughout Portugal, with air travel being among the hardest hit.

Major Airlines Affected: TAP Air Portugal and Azores Airlines

The general strike will severely impact airlines operating in Portugal, including TAP Air Portugal and Azores Airlines, two of the country’s primary carriers. The SNPVAC union, representing around 5,000 cabin crew members, has indicated that the majority of flights scheduled for December 11 will be cancelled. While only essential services are guaranteed, passengers should expect long wait times and significant uncertainty regarding their flights.

TAP Air Portugal, the flagship carrier of the country, has already alerted its customers to the impending strike and advised them to check flight statuses regularly. The airline has also mentioned that it will offer waivers to passengers scheduled to fly on the strike day, allowing them to rebook or receive refunds. Azores Airlines has similarly urged travelers to confirm their flight details ahead of time, in anticipation of the widespread disruption.

Widespread Impact Beyond Airports

While the flight disruptions are expected to cause the most immediate concern for travelers, the strike’s effects will extend far beyond airports. Portugal’s public transport system, including trains, buses, and metro services, is also expected to face major disruptions, further complicating the travel experience for both residents and tourists.

In addition to transport, schools, public administration offices, and port services will be affected. With the holiday season fast approaching, many families and individuals, including the Portuguese diaspora returning home for the festive period, may face severe delays in their travel plans. Authorities have urged the public to be prepared for a day of widespread disruption and to monitor updates closely.

Government Response and Safety Protocols for Travelers

Despite the significant challenges posed by the strike, the Portuguese Ministry of Infrastructure has expressed respect for the workers’ right to strike. A government spokesperson acknowledged the disruptions but reassured the public that contingency plans would be put in place to ensure essential services, such as emergency healthcare and security, would remain operational.

For travelers, it is recommended to exercise caution and patience, particularly as crowds may swell at airports and transportation hubs. Travelers are advised to arrive earlier than usual for their flights and to confirm any changes with their airline. Given the potential for cancellations, ensuring travel insurance is in place could offer some peace of mind, especially for those with connecting flights.

Tourists should also be aware of the general safety measures in place across Portugal to protect public health. The country has maintained high standards of hygiene and health protocols in its airports and public transport systems, and travelers should continue to follow guidelines for social distancing, mask-wearing, and sanitation.

What to Do if Your Flight is Affected

If your flight is cancelled or delayed due to the strike, airlines such as TAP Air Portugal and Azores Airlines are expected to offer flexible rebooking options or refunds. Both carriers have been proactive in notifying passengers and are encouraging them to contact their customer service departments as soon as possible. Passengers should check their email for notifications from the airline regarding any changes to their itinerary.

Travelers Urged to Stay Informed and Plan Ahead

The timing of the general strike coincides with the busy holiday season, making it especially inconvenient for the large number of people planning to visit family and friends in Portugal. As the strike will likely affect many flights to and from major European and international destinations, travelers are strongly encouraged to adjust their travel dates where possible or seek alternate routes.

With the disruption likely to stretch throughout the day, travelers should stay updated on the situation and make adjustments as necessary. Whether rebooking flights or seeking alternate transportation options, flexibility will be crucial. Passengers are also advised to keep a close eye on alerts from airlines and airport authorities regarding flight statuses and other operational changes.

The national strike in Portugal on December 11, 2025, will cause significant disruptions, particularly for travelers flying into and out of the country. With airlines like TAP Air Portugal and Azores Airlines heavily impacted, travelers are advised to stay informed, monitor their flight status, and be prepared for delays or cancellations.

On December 11, 2025, a nationwide general strike in Portugal will cause massive travel disruptions, grounding flights and halting public transport. The strike, led by SNPVAC, will impact major airlines like TAP Air Portugal and Azores Airlines, complicating travel for both residents and tourists.

The impact of the strike will be felt beyond airports, with public transport and other sectors affected as well. Authorities have assured the public that essential services will be maintained, and contingency plans will be implemented to manage the disruption. However, with holiday travel on the horizon, travelers should take extra precautions, allowing more time for their journeys, and ensure their travel plans remain flexible.