Union Declares Strike at Portuguese Airports, Menzies Aviation Criticised Over Handling of Dispute
Significant Disruptions Expected at Portuguese Airports
On August 31 and September 1, 2024, major disruptions are anticipated at all Portuguese airports as workers represented by the Sindicato dos Trabalhadores dos Transportes de Portugal (STTAMP) will strike. The strike primarily targets SPdH – Serviços Portugueses de Handling, S.A., a leading airport handling company managed by Menzies Aviation, its largest shareholder. The union has expressed significant dissatisfaction with the company’s handling of ongoing disputes, leading to the decision to strike.
Arbitration Court Defines Minimum Services
An Arbitration Court hearing held on August 26, 2024, was instrumental in setting the minimum services required during the strike. The court’s decision aims to balance the needs of critical operations with the strike action. The court mandates that essential services must be maintained to ensure safety and critical operations. The decision specifies the following minimum services:
- Safety and Emergency Flights: All flights related to safety, including ambulance and emergency flights, are to be prioritised. This ensures that crucial flights are not impeded by the strike.
- Military and State Flights: Both national and foreign state and military flights must be serviced without interruption, recognising their importance.
- Ongoing Flights: Flights that are already in progress at the start of the strike will continue as planned, ensuring minimal disruption to travellers who are already en route.
- Regional Flights to and from the Azores and Madeira: The first landing and take-off of flights between the mainland and these regions are guaranteed. This includes inter-island flights between Funchal and Porto Santo, ensuring connectivity within Portugal.
Union’s Stance on the Strike
STTAMP, the union representing the workers, has expressed regret over the necessity of the strike action. The union has highlighted that all possible measures were taken to avoid this outcome. Despite ongoing dialogue with Menzies Aviation, no viable solutions were presented by the company. The union emphasised that the responsibility for the strike lies with Menzies Aviation’s management, which failed to offer any alternatives that could have prevented the strike action.
Impact on Passengers
Passengers travelling on these dates are advised to prepare for potential delays and disruptions. The union has pledged to keep passengers informed and to minimise inconvenience as much as possible. However, the impact on flight operations is expected to be significant, affecting flights to, from, or with stopovers at all Portuguese airports. Travellers are encouraged to check their flight status regularly and to contact their airlines for the latest updates.
Responsibility and Future Actions
The management of Menzies Aviation is now under intense scrutiny for its handling of the situation. The union has pointed out that the company’s refusal to present alternative solutions has contributed to the escalation of the dispute. As the strike approaches, it remains to be seen how the company will respond and what steps will be taken to address the workers’ concerns and potentially resolve the dispute before the strike commences.
The upcoming strike represents a crucial moment for both the workers and the management at Menzies Aviation. As the strike days draw nearer, all stakeholders are keenly observing how the situation will evolve. Passengers are advised to stay updated on the latest developments and to prepare for potential changes to their travel plans. The resolution of this dispute is vital for restoring normal operations and ensuring the smooth functioning of Portugal’s major airports.
