António Trindade, chairman of the PortoBay group, has warned of the risk that operators and carriers might suspend operations in Madeira as early as 2027, due to wind-related disruptions at the airport.
Trindade explained that the accumulated costs from diversions to other airports, flight cancellations, and passenger accommodation are impacting airline decisions. A flight unable to land in Madeira may have to divert to the Canary Islands, stay overnight, and try again, incurring significant expenses for fuel, airport fees, and logistics.
The hotelier emphasized that this situation affects not only tourism but also the overall operational efficiency of airlines, facing additional costs and potential delays in their daily schedules.
