Britons issued Portugal travel warning as airport strikes threaten to ruin holidays

FCDO travel insurance |

GOV UK

Isabelle Parkin

By Isabelle Parkin


Published: 19/09/2025

- 21:30

Updated: 19/09/2025

- 21:37

Strikes by ground handling staff were due to take place until January

Britons planning to travel to a popular holiday spot have been warned of possible disruption to their journeys as a result of strikes.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said strike action could impact travel in Portugal, including at airports.


Strikes by Menzies' ground handling staff were scheduled to take place over several periods between September 3 and January 2.

The Union of Metallurgical and Related Industries (SIMA) called off the walkout yesterday, according to local media.

In a statement, the union said "other forms of struggle are already being considered".

It did not however, detail what methods could be used.

Although the staff walkout has been cancelled, the FCDO warns there could still be strikes at short notice.

It said: "Strike action that causes travel disruption, including at airports, can take place.

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Lisbon Airport

Strikes by Menzies ground handling staff were due to take place until January

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"Strikes can be announced at short notice.

"For updates on any disruption that may affect your travel plans, check the local news and follow the advice of your travel provider or tour operator."

The FCDO also advises Britons to check their passports before jetting off to Portugal.

The country follows Schengen area rules, which means passports must have a date of issue less than 10 years before the date you arrive.

Caramujeira in Portugal

Portugal is a popular holiday spot among Britons

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GETTY

Those who renewed their passport before October 1, 2018, may have a date of issue that is more than a decade ago.

It must also have an expiry date of at least three months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area.

The Schengen area is formed of 29 European countries, including Italy, Greece, France and Croatia.

"Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to," the FCDO said.

"You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has either been reported lost or stolen or is damaged."

Elsewhere in the country, Britons have been warned over an increased risk of wildfires.

According to the FCDO, wildfires are likely to break out between April and October when the weather is hot and dry, adding that wildfires can start anywhere in Portugal.

"Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The Portuguese authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons. You should:
- Check the fire risk index for your location (in Portuguese)
- Familiarise yourself with local safety and emergency procedures
- Follow the advice of the Portuguese authorities
- Call the emergency services on 112 if you see a fire

"Starting a fire, even if it is by accident, is illegal and you could get a fine or a prison sentence."

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