Strong Winds Paralyze Airport, Flights Canceled and Diverted
Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) is battling wind gusts of up to 86 km/h, causing significant disruptions to air traffic. Many flights have been canceled, diverted to Porto Santo or the Canary Islands, or are experiencing major delays. According to the forecast, the situation is not expected to improve until Sunday afternoon.
- Who is affected? All passengers arriving in or departing from Madeira today (May 24, 2026).
- What does this mean in practice? A high probability of your flight being delayed, canceled, or diverted.
- What do we recommend? Before heading to the airport, it is essential to check the current status of your flight directly with your airline or on the airport’s website. Be prepared for changes to the flight schedule.
Mountain Hiking: Beware of Extreme Winds and Closures
In mountainous areas, such as around Chão do Areeiro, wind gusts are exceeding 90 km/h. Combined with existing trail restrictions, moving at high altitudes today is extremely risky. We strongly advise postponing any mountain hikes.
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: Partial Closure Remains in Effect
Madeira’s most famous trail, from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, remains partially closed for safety reasons. Authorities are warning people not to violate the closure and are actively searching for tourists who have bypassed the barriers.
- Who is affected? Hikers planning to traverse the route between the island’s highest peaks.
- What does this mean in practice? The trail is impassable. From Pico do Areeiro, you can only go as far as the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint (approx. 1.2 km). The eastern path via Pico das Torres is closed. Alternatives, such as the PR1.2 trail from Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo, remain open.
- What do we recommend? Respect the closure—it’s for your own safety. Choose a different, fully open, and safer trail for your hike.
Don’t Forget: Trail Entrance Fees
Since the beginning of 2026, tourists (non-residents over the age of 12) are required to pay an entrance fee for selected official trails (PR). Both booking and payment must be completed in advance online via the SIMplifica platform.
- Who is affected? Most tourists planning to go hiking.
- What does this mean in practice? You cannot legally access the fee-based trails without a valid online booking.
- What do we recommend? Plan your hikes in advance and secure your tickets online to avoid any complications.
Tip for June: The Festival do Atlântico is Approaching
Despite the adverse weather, the island is already gearing up for a major summer event. The popular Festival do Atlântico will kick off on June 6th, highlighted by the traditional Saturday fireworks displays over the Funchal bay. The Savoy Signature hotel chain has already started selling tickets for exclusive parties on its rooftop terraces (like the Galáxia Skybar at the Savoy Palace hotel), which offer the best views of the fireworks. If you’ll be on the island in June and want to enjoy the show in comfort and style, we recommend booking well in advance.