Peak summer strike action at Portuguese airports threatens ‘significant disruption’  

All Portuguese airports face strike action on weekends throughout the summer holiday peak travel period.

The expected action will affect ground operations such as check-in, baggage handling, and aircraft servicing at all airports across mainland Portugal and the islands.

Walkouts are planned on five successive weekends starting at midnight on Friday, July 25 until midnight on Monday, July 28 and throughout August.

The pay dispute was confirmed by the Metallurgical Industries and Related Industries Union (SIMA) following Menzie’s takeover of the former Groundforce operations at Portuguese airports.

Local media in Portugal reported that travellers should expect “significant delays or cancellations”, especially during baggage processing and boarding procedures, although essential safety services will be maintained.