EasyJet has been forced to cancel over 232 flights due to strike action in Portugal, affecting thousands of passengers. The walkout, organised by the National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Staff (SNPVAC), will take place between 15th and 17th August, impacting over a quarter of the airline's flights to and from Portugal.
Originally, 160 flights were expected to be disrupted during the three-day strike. However, the number of cancellations has since increased to 232, affecting approximately 27 flights to and from the UK.
The strike action, which starts at 12:01am on 15th August and ends at 12pm on 17th August, is due to ongoing disputes regarding staff shortages and increased working hours.
In a statement, an EasyJet spokesperson expressed disappointment with the strike, particularly during the peak summer travel season. They highlighted their efforts to mitigate the impact on customers, including pre-emptive cancellations to allow for travel rearrangements.
"Customers whose flights have been affected have already been contacted with options to rebook or receive a refund," the spokesperson stated. "We advise customers travelling to and from Portugal on 15th, 16th and 17th August to check the status of their flights on the EasyJet Flight Tracker."
While the focus remains on Portugal, travellers heading to other European destinations should remain vigilant about potential disruptions.
Other European Strike Updates:
Italy: Strikes have already taken place in Italy earlier this year, but the country's transport sector is currently prohibited from striking between 27th July and 5th September, meaning no further walkouts are expected until after this period.
United Kingdom: Strikes were planned at London Gatwick and two Scottish airports, Glasgow and Aberdeen, but these have since been called off.
Netherlands: A public transport strike is scheduled in major Dutch cities on 12th September, with the potential for further walkouts. Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam are expected to be affected.
Flight Compensation:
Passengers whose flights are delayed or cancelled may be entitled to compensation under UK law. Airlines must provide compensation if flights arrive at their destination more than three hours late. Additionally, passengers can choose between a refund or an alternative flight.
However, airlines are not required to provide compensation for cancellations due to "extraordinary circumstances", such as extreme weather conditions or airport strikes.
Travellers whose flights are disrupted should check their travel insurance policy, as they may be eligible for reimbursement if compensation from the airline is not available.
With ongoing travel disruption across Europe, passengers are advised to stay informed about potential strikes and check the status of their flights regularly.