Published on
August 11, 2025 |
Lisbon has joined other major Portuguese airports like Porto, Faro, Madeira, Porto Santo, and the Azores in experiencing weekend strikes throughout August, causing significant disruptions for travelers. These strikes by ground handling staff protesting low wages and poor working conditions have led to widespread baggage delays and losses. As a result, affected tourists, especially those traveling in August, are being offered compensation of up to one thousand six hundred pounds to help cover the costs and inconvenience caused by the luggage mishandling.
Weekend strikes throughout August are severely disrupting operations at major Portuguese airports, causing widespread inconvenience for thousands of travelers. Many passengers, including a significant number from the UK, are facing the frustrating experience of arriving at their destinations without their luggage. These ongoing disruptions have sparked concerns among holidaymakers, airlines, and travel agencies alike.
The root of this disruption lies in a strike by ground handling staff employed by SPdH/Menzies, formerly known as Groundforce, who are responsible for baggage handling at Portugal’s busiest airports. The strike is supported by the SIMA union and centers on grievances regarding poor wages, unpaid night shifts, and a broken pay agreement that followed Menzies Aviation’s takeover of the ground handling company. The failure to resolve these issues has led to a series of strikes scheduled for every weekend in August, significantly impacting airport operations and passenger experiences.
Affected airports include key hubs such as Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Madeira, Porto Santo, and the Azores. The strikes are planned to take place during several periods: August 8 to 11, August 15 to 18, August 22 to 25, and August 29 to September 1. During these intervals, travelers should expect delays, cancellations, and a high likelihood of luggage mishandling or loss.
For British tourists and other international travelers affected by these strikes, there may be financial recourse available. Aviation experts have highlighted that passengers could be entitled to claim compensation of up to £1,600 if their luggage is lost or delayed due to these disruptions. This compensation is designed to offset the inconvenience and financial burden caused by missing baggage, such as the need to purchase essential items while waiting.
In practice, travelers can request reimbursement for vital purchases like clothing, toiletries, and medication incurred during the period their baggage is delayed. Furthermore, in some instances, passengers might qualify for a fixed compensation amount reaching as high as €1,920 (approximately £1,600). These figures are set within the framework of international aviation regulations that protect passengers’ rights.
The legal basis for this compensation is Article 22 of the Montreal Convention, an international treaty that governs airline liability concerning baggage issues. According to this convention, airlines are responsible for compensating passengers when their baggage is officially declared lost—typically after 21 days without any updates on its whereabouts. Compensation also applies if luggage is returned in a damaged state that makes it unusable or severely impaired. Additionally, if the delay results in a documented financial loss—such as missed business opportunities or significant personal events—passengers may be eligible for further compensation.
This situation highlights the broader challenges faced by airlines and airports in managing labor relations while maintaining smooth operations. The ongoing strike reflects deeper issues within the aviation ground handling sector, where staffing concerns, wage disputes, and contractual disagreements can quickly escalate to affect millions of travelers. As airports struggle to keep up with demand during peak travel seasons like August, these labor disputes can lead to far-reaching consequences.
For travelers planning trips to Portugal during this period, it is advisable to remain informed about the strike schedules and prepare accordingly. This might include arriving at airports earlier than usual, monitoring flight status updates closely, and keeping receipts for any essential purchases made due to delayed baggage. Additionally, travelers are encouraged to understand their rights under the Montreal Convention and consult with airlines or legal experts if they believe they qualify for compensation.
Airlines operating in and out of Portugal are also under pressure to manage the situation effectively, coordinating alternative arrangements and providing clear communication to affected passengers. Some airlines may offer additional support or compensation beyond the legal minimums to maintain customer goodwill and manage reputational risk.
The weekend strikes by ground handling staff in Portugal are causing significant disruption to airport services, particularly baggage handling, throughout August. Thousands of travelers, including many from the UK, face the risk of lost or delayed luggage but have the right to seek compensation under international law. Understanding these rights and the ongoing labor dispute context can help travelers navigate this challenging travel period with greater confidence and preparedness.
