A strike by workers at Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport has led to significant disruptions, including the cancellation of seven flights and the diversion of eleven others. The strike, initiated by employees of SPdH/Menzies, aims to address grievances related to working conditions and pay. The situation has raised concerns among travelers during the busy holiday season.
Background of the Strike
The strike was called by the Sindicato das Indústrias Metalúrgicas e Afins (SIMA), representing the workers of SPdH/Menzies, formerly known as Groundforce. The union claims that the company has failed to respond to their demands for better working conditions, including issues related to transportation for employees and parking fees.
The workers key concerns are in three areas:
- Transportation Issues: Lack of transport options for employees during early and late shifts.
- Parking Fees: Requirement for employees to pay for parking when using their vehicles to commute.
- Wages: The existence of base salaries below the national minimum wage of €820 for 2024.
Impact on Travelers
The strike has caused considerable chaos at the airport, with the union reporting that by mid-morning on December 22, 14 flights had been canceled and 46 had been diverted. Travelers have expressed frustration as airlines scramble to adjust their schedules in response to the strike.
While the airport management, ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal, attributed some of the flight disruptions to adverse weather conditions at the Madeira Airport, the union disputes this claim, insisting that the strike is the primary cause of the cancellations and delays.
Future Actions
The strike is scheduled to continue in two-hour modules until December 26, with the potential for further disruptions as workers from the handling company Portway are also planning a strike during the Christmas and New Year period. This upcoming strike will cover:
- December 24, 2024: From midnight to midnight.
- December 31, 2024: From midnight to midnight.
- Holidays: Any normal working day that falls on a holiday from December 24 to January 2, 2025.
Conclusion
As the holiday season approaches, the ongoing strike at Lisbon’s airport poses a significant challenge for travelers. With demands for better working conditions and fair wages, the situation highlights the ongoing struggles faced by airport workers in Portugal. Travelers are advised to stay informed about their flight statuses and prepare for potential delays and cancellations as the strike unfolds.
