Major Disruptions at Lisbon Airport: Handling Strike Causes Flight Delays

Disruptions at Lisbon Airport

The strike by handling companies Menzies (formerly Groundforce) and Portway has led to delays in some flights, with the cargo sector being the most affected, according to union sources.

Image Credit: INÁCIO ROSA/LUSA

At approximately 4:30 PM, Carlos Oliveira from the Metalworking and Related Industries Union (SIMA) noted that the aviation flow is significantly lower today, Christmas Day, with about 10 to 11 flights delayed at Lisbon Airport due to the Menzies workers' strike providing ground assistance.

According to Oliveira, the strike is primarily impacting the cargo sector, with several trucks still waiting and no estimate on when they will be dispatched. The strike began at midnight on December 22 and is conducted in two-hour modules during the shifts.

SIMA has requested data on the participation of SPdH/Menzies workers, who are advocating for better salary and working conditions. The protest stems from the company's lack of response to issues like inadequate transportation during shift changes and the requirement for workers to pay for parking when they drive to work.

The union demands that Menzies eliminate base salaries lower than the national minimum wage (set at €820 for 2024) and ensure that night hours are compensated according to the company agreement.

In addition to Menzies workers, Portway workers have also planned a strike for the Christmas and New Year period. This strike will cover all supplementary work starting from midnight on December 24, 2024, until midnight on January 1, 2025. Further strikes will occur from midnight on December 24 and midnight on December 31.

The strike will also affect work on public holidays that coincide with normal working days, from December 24 to January 2, 2025.