Hundreds of EasyJet flights to and from Portugal have been canceled at the last minute, causing chaos for many summer holiday travelers. The cancellations are due to a three-day strike by EasyJet’s cabin crew in Portugal, which began on Thursday.
Key Takeaways
- EasyJet canceled 232 out of 1,138 scheduled flights to and from Portugal.
- The strike is set to last from August 15 to August 17.
- The strike was called due to issues like lack of roster stability and insufficient staffing.
- The Portuguese government has mandated minimum services during the strike.
Strike Details
EasyJet’s cabin crew in Portugal announced the strike late last month, citing reasons such as lack of roster stability, insufficient staffing, and pressure to work overtime for commercial purposes. The strike is organized by the civil aviation flight personnel union SNPVAC.
Impact on Travelers
The strike has led to the cancellation of 232 out of 1,138 scheduled flights, affecting thousands of travelers. EasyJet has expressed regret over the disruption and stated that the cancellations were necessary to minimize the impact on customers.
Government Intervention
The Portuguese government has decreed the need for minimum services during the strike. These services include flights to the island of Madeira, Geneva, Luxembourg, and London.
Tourism in Portugal
Despite the strike, tourism in Portugal has been booming. Official statistics show a 7.5% increase in foreign tourists between January and June, making it the best first half ever for the country. Visitors from Britain represent the largest share of total arrivals, followed by the United States and Spain.
Economic Impact
Tourism is a key driver of Portugal’s economy. Last year, foreign tourism reached a record of over 18 million guests. Tourism-linked consumption accounted for 16.5% of the country’s gross domestic product, generating about half of the 2.3% economic growth.
EasyJet’s Presence in Portugal
EasyJet has 19 aircraft based in Portugal and employs over 800 people in the country. The airline has been significantly affected by the strike, which has disrupted its operations and impacted its customers.
Conclusion
The three-day strike by EasyJet’s cabin crew in Portugal has caused significant disruption for travelers and highlighted ongoing issues within the airline. While the Portuguese government has intervened to ensure minimum services, the strike underscores the challenges faced by the aviation industry in maintaining stable and sufficient staffing levels.