The Lisboeta

EasyJet warns Lisbon airport must improve before adding capacity

Friday, 16 January 2026AI summary
EasyJet warns Lisbon airport must improve before adding capacity

EasyJet Portugal’s director‑general warned that Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport (Aeroporto Humberto Delgado) is operating at or near capacity and needs operational improvements before flight numbers increase, describing current performance as among the worst in Europe for delays. The remarks stress the risk that adding flights without fixing delays and resilience could worsen passenger disruption. Travellers should allow extra connection time, monitor flight status and expect capacity debates to shape summer schedules and fares.

Context & Explainers

Humberto Delgado Airport is Lisbon's main airport (the Aeroporto Humberto Delgado), serving as Portugal's busiest international gateway and handling roughly 30 million passengers in the pre-pandemic period. For travellers and residents it matters because capacity and operational issues there directly affect flight delays, connections and the availability of routes.

Portela is the common local name for Humberto Delgado Airport (Aeroporto Humberto Delgado), so media references to Portela point to Lisbon's main airport and its operational limits. When reports cite Portela's delays or capacity problems, that means impacts on flight punctuality and route availability for people travelling to or from the capital.

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