TAP pilots union welcomes profit rebound, warns of labour risks from Lufthansa stake

The Civil Aviation Pilots Union (SPAC) announced it will not join the nationwide strike planned for 3 June, despite supporting the broader protest against Portugal’s labour package. Union president Hélder Santinhos praised TAP Air Portugal’s first‑quarter results, noting that losses fell to €39.9 million and operating revenue rose 11% to €914.4 million, driven by stronger demand in South and North America.

Santinhos said the union backs TAP’s re‑privatisation, provided any buyer demonstrates solid technical, financial and labour integrity. He expressed particular concern about a possible Lufthansa capital entry, citing the German pilots’ union VC Cockpit’s “anti‑union tactics” and warning that such practices could jeopardise social and labour peace at the Lisbon hub. The union has raised these issues with the government but has not indicated a preferred buyer.

The union’s stance underscores a focus on maintaining TAP’s profitability while safeguarding Portuguese workers’ rights amid the ongoing privatisation process.