Portugal travel warning as up to 500 flights could be cancelled in June

Airline cabin crew, railway workers and public transport staff plan to strike on June 3 in protest at proposed government reforms, putting up to 500 flights at risk of cancellation

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Britons face significant travel chaos at the beginning of the summer holidays as a looming transport walkout is set to hit a popular tourist destination.

Those heading to Portugal should make preparations in advance, as airline cabin crew, rail employees and public transport workers are planning to strike on Wednesday, June 3 in opposition to proposed government reforms.

Reports suggest up to 500 flights could be scrapped, while trains, ferries, city metros and buses are all expected to face disruption.

Cabin crew operations for TAP Air Portugal, along with its regional operators Portugália and SATA, will see up to 79% staff absence, according to Travel Tomorrow. Other carriers are also anticipating staffing problems.

Personnel shortages could spell trouble at the beginning of the summer period for Europe’s biggest airline by passenger numbers, Ryanair and competitor easyJet.

Both carriers operate from Portuguese hubs.

Airlines are typically required to help or reimburse passengers if their flight is delayed or cancelled because of a strike and its circumstances.

It does, however, depend on the airline’s terms and conditions, with some not covering strikes beyond their control. This would include airport or baggage handler walkouts.

Reimbursement also hinges on the scope of a passenger’s travel insurance.

This information should be readily available on the airline or insurer’s website. Booking a flight during a period when industrial action has been announced means passengers are unlikely to be entitled to compensation.

Passengers are advised to check for any strikes affecting their chosen airline, as well as their departure and arrival airports.

Strikes are mainly used as negotiating tools in discussions between unions and employers. The possibility remains that both sides will reach an agreement before a strike takes place.