In Portugal and Spain Travelers are facing possible restrictions on air traffic during the summer months. Portuguese unions have warned the ground staff of the handling company Menzies called for strikes on five weekends in July and August. In Spain, the UGT union called for strikes by ground staff at Ryanair-Daughter Azul Handling announced, which are scheduled to continue weekly from mid-August to the end of December. These strikes fall during peak travel season and could cause significant delays and flight cancellations.
Passengers should expect longer waiting times at check-in and baggage drop-off, as staff shortages at airports can lead to congestion. Air passenger rights expert Nina Staub from the company AirHelp points out that travelers who miss their flights due to long queues are not entitled to compensation. The legal situation regarding compensation payments varies from country to country. In Portugal, airport staff strikes are considered "extraordinary circumstances" beyond the airline's control. Accordingly, passengers there are not entitled to compensation.
The situation is different in Spain, as Azul Handling is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ryanair. Since the airline itself is responsible for the strike in this case, affected passengers must receive compensation payments for delays or cancellations, the amount of which depends on the distance of the flight. According to EU Regulation EC 261 on air passenger rights, the compensation can amount to up to €600 per person.
Regardless of compensation, travelers in both countries are entitled to compensation if their flight is delayed by more than five hours. Airlines must then offer alternative transportation or a full refund of the ticket price. For delays of more than two hours, the airline must also provide meals, drinks, and communication. For longer waiting times, it is also obligated to provide accommodations and transportation to the destination.