The December 8-9 strike at Portuguese flag carrier TAP would impact revenue by around €8 million, while the airline would also lose half of its capacity.
Furthermore, according to the recent Portugal News report, the strike would also result in the cancellation of 360 flights and around 50,000 travellers, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.
The CEO of TAP Portugal, Christine Ourmières-Widener, confirmed the strike plan scheduled for December 8 and 9, while stressing that she looked forward to the meeting of the National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Crew, during which a final decision will be made in this regard.
In this regard, ECO said that if the strike went ahead, around half of the airline’s capacity would be affected. In addition, it was pointed out that around 60% of flights were reserved while the strike would affect nearly 50,000 travellers. Moreover, nearly 25% of them have already booked their flights.
“Our priority is to protect our customers. We received the strike notice on Monday. The union has decided to keep the general assembly for the 6th, but whatever the decision, because of the size of TAP, it will be too late”, said the CEO of TAP Portugal, while stressing that if there is no immediate action, there will be a significant impact on customers.
The chief executive added that the situation will be managed, stressing that they wanted to discuss effective ways for the airline to move forward more constructively.
Earlier this month, Portugal’s flag carrier has announced it may be forced to cancel more than 400 flights for a period between November and December of this year.
Moreover, in September of this year, TAP Air Portugal, has been criticized by the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who added that TAP is costing citizens a lot of money.
According to local media at the time, TAP absorbs millions in Portuguese state aid, but it offers fewer flights and higher fares compared to other airlines.
Irish airline Ryanair, through a statement, expressed support for the President of Portugal over criticism that TAP is offering high-priced services despite state aid.
“TAP shamefully continues to absorb 3.2 billion euros in Portuguese state aid, offering even fewer flights and much higher fares at the expense of the Portuguese tourist market, economic growth and money taxpayers”, explains Ryanair.
However, despite the difficulties TAP Portugal is facing, Portuguese airports have managed to accommodate a large number of internationals.
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