A widespread power outage in Spain and Portugal caused significant disruption, grounding flights and leaving thousands of passengers stranded at Lisbon's Humberto Delgado Airport. While airlines like TAP Air Portugal and easyJet proactively contacted passengers and offered assistance, British Airways faced severe criticism for its inadequate response.
The author and two companions were among those affected. They report that British Airways provided minimal information and delayed canceling flights until late in the evening. Even after cancellations, the airline refused to provide accommodation, leaving passengers to fend for themselves in a city with limited power and fully booked hotels. Efforts to contact the airline for assistance were met with indifference.
The author details the challenges faced by passengers, including navigating the city in the dark without streetlights, lack of mobile signal and transport. They highlight the vulnerability of elderly or vulnerable passengers in such situations and question the airline's lack of support. The experience is summarized as one of 'disdain'.
British Airways stated that the power outage was outside its control and that they cancelled flights as soon as it was clear they could not operate. They claim to have contacted affected passengers to offer rebooking or refund options.