Portugal: Unionized ground handling staff plan nationwide strike July 30-31 and Aug. 5-6

Event

Unionized ground staff plan to strike at airports nationwide July 30-31. A second action is also planned for Aug. 5-6. The purpose of the action is to push for increased payment for work on holidays. The move coincides with an ongoing and indefinite work-to-rule strike.

Unless averted, the work stoppage may cause severe disruption to airport ground operations across Portugal. Delays in checking in for flights, clearing security, and retrieving checked baggage are probable. Flight delays are possible. Nevertheless, the strike probably will not be crippling at Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO) airports since the government has mandated that minimum levels of service be maintained at those facilities for the duration of the walkouts.

Advice

Arrive at the airport early to mitigate the impact of longer passenger processing times. Allow additional time between scheduled landing and arrival at final destination due to probable delays in retrieving checked luggage.