Latest news and stories about handling services in Portugal for expats and residents.
The Union of Aviation and Airport Workers (Sitava) warned today that the extension of the handling licences held by Menzies will cause “instability and disruption” to summer operations and accused the Government of “mocking those who work”.
The Aviation and Airport Workers' Union (Sitava) has warned that extending the handling licences held by Menzies will cause instability and disruption during the summer season, accusing the Government of disrespecting workers. The union argues that this decision creates a 'perfect storm' for Portuguese airports, highlighting concerns over job security, the lack of transfer of employment rights, and the potential replacement of experienced staff with workers recruited from abroad. The Government maintains the extension is necessary to ensure service continuity while legal disputes regarding the new tender process are resolved.
Sitava warns that the extension of handling licences will cause instability at airports during the summer, accusing the Government of ignoring workers and creating a risk of operational disruption.
This will be the second time the handling licences of the current service provider are extended. The decision comes while a precautionary measure from Menzies is pending, challenging the tender for licences to operate in Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, which was awarded to the Spanish company Clece/South.
Menzies has a licence to operate until 19 May, but due to the ongoing legal proceedings, this deadline will need to be extended. TAP is evaluating the possibility of performing its own handling.
The consortium that won the licences to operate at Lisbon, Porto and Faro airports must submit data to ANAC by this Monday proving they have the staff and equipment to provide the service. As a result, they are attempting to recruit volunteers in Spain, offering guaranteed housing and meals to those who accept.
