Airport in Chaos: Strong Winds Continue to Cancel Dozens of Flights
The most important news of the day concerns Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC). For the third consecutive day, extremely challenging conditions persist due to strong wind gusts exceeding 80 km/h (approx. 50 mph). Since midnight, dozens of arrivals and departures have been cancelled, affecting thousands of passengers. The situation at the terminal is very tense.
- Who is affected? Passengers scheduled to arrive in or depart from Madeira today.
- What this means for you: There is a high probability of delays or the complete cancellation of your flight. The airport is overcrowded, and information is limited.
- What we recommend: Do not travel to the airport without first checking your flight status online. Contact your airline directly. If you are stranded on the island, arrange for alternative accommodation immediately – nearby hotels are filling up quickly.
Changes to the Porto Santo Ferry Schedule
The adverse weather has also impacted sea travel. The Porto Santo Line company has changed today’s schedule for the Lobo Marinho ferry. The morning departure from Funchal left at 8:30 AM, but the return journey from Porto Santo has been postponed until 10:30 PM tonight.
- Who is affected? Tourists planning a day trip to the island of Porto Santo.
- What this means for you: Your stay will be significantly extended into the late evening hours.
- What we recommend: Adjust your plans for a longer stay, or contact the ferry operator to request a free ticket change or cancellation.
Conditions on Trails and in the Mountains
WARNING: New Rules and Fee for the PR1 Pico do Areeiro ↔ Pico Ruivo Trail
Madeira’s most popular trail, PR1 – Vereda do Areeiro, is fully open after renovations, but is now subject to completely new and strict regulations. Plan your hike carefully!
- The trail is now one-way on the section from Pedra Rija to Pico Ruivo. You can only hike in the direction from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo. You must return via a different route (most commonly by descending to Achada do Teixeira – PR1.2).
- Online booking is now required, along with a fee of €10.50 for non-residents, payable through the SIMplifica portal. You will not be allowed on the trail without a valid reservation.
- Today, being a public holiday, expect extreme congestion with cars and people at the Pico do Areeiro car park.
Wind and Mountain Safety
The weather in the mountains is stable today, with temperatures up to 25°C (approx. 77°F), but it is very windy. Expect wind gusts of up to 40 km/h (approx. 25 mph) on ridges and exposed areas. The wind chill will make it feel significantly colder. Be sure to pack a quality windproof jacket and be cautious near cliff edges.
Today’s Tip: Escape the Wind with Traditions and Sports
If you want to escape the travel complications and coastal winds, head inland. Today’s public holiday offers two great events.
Traditional Sheep Shearing in Serras do Poiso
In the locality of Ribeira dos Boieiros (Poiso area), a traditional sheep shearing ceremony is taking place, accompanied by a folk festival (arraial). You can expect live music and stalls selling Madeiran specialities like espetada (meat skewers) and poncha. It’s an ideal opportunity to experience the island’s authentic culture.
Madeira Sky Race Kicks Off in Santana
On the north of the island, in the vicinity of Arco de São Jorge and São Jorge, the prestigious Madeira Sky Race has started today. You can experience a great sporting atmosphere there. Expect larger crowds and minor traffic restrictions in the area, but these should not pose a major inconvenience for tourists.