Portugal set for travel chaos as country braces for ‘numerous flight cancellations’

Portugal is bracing for significant travel disruptions as multiple flights are set to be cancelled.

Workers at SPdH (Groundforce), a major ground handling company, have announced a strike for August 31 and September 1. 

The strike, organised by the Portuguese Transport Workers’ Union (STTAMP), is expected to cause “severe constraints” at airports across the country, particularly in Porto and Lisbon.

The strike is in response to a range of grievances, including low wages, the use of temporary agency workers, excessive overtime, and frequent changes to working hours.

The union said that many Groundforce employees earn less than the national minimum wage, and they are also protesting the way the company’s voluntary departure program is being managed, which they claim is being conducted under the threat of collective redundancies.

STTAMP has warned that the strike will likely lead to “numerous flight cancellations” and delays for airlines serviced by SPdH, including TAP Air Portugal. 

The union advised passengers with scheduled flights during the strike period to confirm their travel plans with their airlines in advance.

The union’s statement expressed frustration that no negotiations had taken place to prevent the strike, adding that if the strike proceeds, the effects on national airports will be unpredictable. 

“Once again, regardless of the reason or origin that weakens the company, it is always the workers who pay the bill,” Sttamp stated.

Despite the planned strike, the union assured that essential services including safety and maintenance of equipment and facilities will be maintained. 

However, the disruption to regular services is expected to be significant.

Groundforce, which handles ground services at Portuguese airports, has been facing financial difficulties for several years. 

In 2021, TAP filed for the company’s insolvency, with debts amounting to 136.2 million euros. 

More recently, in June 2023, Menzies Aviation completed the acquisition of a 50.1 percent stake in Groundforce, with plans for an initial investment of 12.5 million euros.