On December 11th, a Thursday, traveling by plane in Portugal could prove to be a significant challenge due to the mobilization of several aviation unions and the direct impact that the general strike will have on both airports and the main airlines. According to travel news portal De Férias, the cabin crew’s decision to join the protest increases the likelihood of delays, cancellations and reduced operations throughout the day.
The National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel held an emergency general meeting to decide whether to participate in the strike. According to the same source, the vote included 2,802 members, of which 2,305 approved membership. This structure represents professionals from companies such as TAP, SATA and easyJet, which puts additional pressure on the operations scheduled for that day.
The call for this assembly came after criticism directed at the Government. The union contested the draft revision of the Labor Code, considering that the proposals represent the elimination of labor guarantees that directly affect the aviation sector.
Reasons fueling the protest
Among the arguments presented, the union stated that the legislative changes constitute a setback with an impact on working conditions. The publication adds that SNPVAC also rejected the accusations of political opportunism that the prime minister directed at the union structures involved in the strike.
The contestation occurs in a broader context, with several labor entities accusing the Executive of advancing changes without sufficient dialogue. The same source states that the labor package raised reservations in different sectors, both public and private.
Possible implications for aviation
In addition to the crew and ground staff, the Civil Aviation Pilots Union monitors the progress of the process. According to , SPAC admits to taking the issue to its general assembly, if there are no changes to the labor proposal presented by the Government, a scenario that would increase pressure on air traffic.
The possible participation of new unions could increase the expected constraints, reinforcing the need for minimum services and mitigation mechanisms.
What could happen on December 11th
With several aviation operational sectors involved, the risk of disruption is high. According to the same source, passengers may face prolonged delays, rescheduling and cancellations, even if minimum services are established.
For those who have trips planned, the recommendation is to follow updates from airlines and airports in the previous hours and days. The final scope of the strike will also depend on the evolution of negotiations between the Government and the union structures.
Also read:
