Emirates has suspended all flights to and from Lisbon on Thursday, December 11, as Portugal braces for a nationwide general strike expected to halt the country’s transport sector. The airline confirmed that four services — EK191 and EK193 from Dubai to Lisbon, along with EK192 and EK194 returning to Dubai, have been cancelled. Passengers transiting through Dubai on EK191 and EK193 will not be accepted for travel at their departure point.
The carrier urged customers who booked directly with Emirates to contact its customer service for alternative arrangements, while travellers who booked through agencies should coordinate with their respective agents. “We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers,” the airline said, adding that teams are working with airport partners and authorities to restore operations once the strike concludes.
The cancellations reportedly coincide with Portugal’s first general strike since 2013, when the nation implemented austerity measures in exchange for international bailout funds. The country’s major unions, CGTP and UGT, called for today’s walkout in protest of government-proposed labour reforms that would make it easier to dismiss employees, extend fixed-term contracts, and expand the list of essential services during strikes. Labour groups argue the overhaul threatens job security and collective bargaining rights.
Public-sector staff, teachers, healthcare workers, and transport personnel are expected to participate, causing widespread disruption across air travel, rail services, and urban transit networks. The strike is likely to halt buses, slow port operations, close schools, and impact tourism during a busy travel period.
Aviation unions have also joined the movement. SNPVAC, which represents around 5,000 TAP Air Portugal crew members, along with cabin crews from easyJet, Ryanair, and Azores Airlines, has confirmed its involvement. Their participation is expected to lead to significant delays and cancellations at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport and other gateways as airlines face reduced staffing and air traffic control limitations.
Emirates noted that the full suspension of its Lisbon operations for the day may increase pressure on travellers seeking alternate routes.
The airline is advising passengers to update their contact details through its Manage Your Booking portal to receive real-time alerts. Emirates said it remains committed to assisting stranded travellers and stabilising operations once the nationwide strike subsides.
