Funchal Airport: Winds Today, Strike Tomorrow
Air travel in Madeira is facing two major challenges in the coming days. If you are flying to or from the island, please pay close attention to this information.
Strong Winds Causing Cancellations (Tuesday, June 2)
Adverse weather and strong winds at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport this morning have led to the cancellation of ten EasyJet flights (both arrivals and departures) on routes to/from Porto, Lisbon, Basel, Lyon, and London. Other airlines are also reporting issues.
- Who is affected? Passengers scheduled to fly on Tuesday, June 2, particularly with EasyJet.
- What does this mean for you? Your flight may be cancelled or significantly delayed.
- What should you do? Before heading to the airport, check your flight status directly with your airline or on the airport’s website. Stay in contact with your airline for further instructions.
Aviation General Strike (Wednesday, June 3)
A nationwide strike by aviation workers has been announced for tomorrow, Wednesday, June 3, 2026. Operations at Funchal Airport will be severely disrupted and reduced to a legal minimum.
- Who is affected? All passengers with flights booked for Wednesday, June 3.
- What does this mean for you? Only the first morning flight between Madeira and the mainland and the first flight to Porto Santo island will be guaranteed. All other flights are at critical risk of cancellation.
- What should you do? Contact your airline immediately to arrange a free rebooking for a different date. If possible, do not travel to the airport—chaos and terminal overcrowding are expected.
Trail Update: PR1 Closure and Mandatory Reservations
If you are planning a hike in the island’s highest areas, be aware of important restrictions on the PR1 trail and the requirement for online registration.
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: The Route to Pico Ruivo is Closed
The most famous high-altitude trail, PR1 Vereda do Areeiro, connecting Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo, is currently only partially open.
- Who is affected? Hikers planning the full traverse between Madeira’s two highest peaks.
- What does this mean for you? From Pico do Areeiro, you can only go as far as the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint (approx. 1.2 km). The section via Pico das Torres to Pico Ruivo is closed for safety reasons. Therefore, the entire route cannot be completed.
- What should you do? To reach the highest peak, Pico Ruivo, choose the easier and fully open alternative route: PR1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo from the Achada do Teixeira car park.
Don’t Forget Your Online Permit for Trail Access
For access to all officially marked trails (PR), non-residents over the age of 12 are required to register and pay a fee through the government’s SIMplifica system.
- Who is affected? Almost all tourists heading to marked trails.
- What does this mean for you? Without a valid online reservation, you risk being fined.
- What should you do? Complete your reservation and payment online in advance to avoid any complications on-site.
Nature and Respect: Keep the Mountains Clean
The media has reported on litter left behind by some visitors in the popular Chão das Feiteiras picnic area (Poiso region). In response, an increased presence of forest rangers can be expected in protected areas. Please remember the “Leave No Trace” principle and carry all your rubbish out with you. Littering in nature is subject to heavy fines.
Tip for Foodies: The Art of Flavours Festival
If your stay in Madeira extends to mid-June and you appreciate high-end gastronomy, don’t miss the 7th edition of The Art of Flavours festival. It will take place on June 12 and 13 at the iconic Reid’s Palace hotel in Funchal, featuring Michelin-starred chefs from around the world. Due to the event’s exclusivity, early booking is highly recommended.