Severe weather conditions linked to Storm Therese caused widespread disruption to air travel in Portugal, with multiple flights cancelled to and from Madeira International Airport on March 20. Authorities confirmed that at least 18 to 19 flights were affected during the day as strong winds and persistent rain impacted operations across the archipelago. The disruption extended beyond Madeira, with airports in Lisbon and Porto also reporting cancellations on routes connected to the island, highlighting the broader impact of the storm on national travel networks.
Airlines were forced to suspend both arrivals and departures as wind gusts reached up to 70 kilometers per hour, creating unsafe landing and takeoff conditions at Madeira Airport, which is known for its challenging runway approach. Weather conditions fluctuated throughout the day, making it difficult for airport authorities to maintain regular operations. Passengers experienced delays and cancellations with limited alternatives available, particularly for those traveling between mainland Portugal and the island during peak daytime hours.
The disruption comes as the Madeira archipelago has been experiencing unstable weather patterns for several days, with heavy rainfall and strong winds linked to the passage of Storm Therese. Meteorological conditions have remained unpredictable, forcing airlines and airport operators to prioritize safety over scheduling. Madeira Airport has historically faced operational challenges during adverse weather, and such conditions often result in sudden changes to flight schedules, especially when wind intensity exceeds safe operational thresholds.
Travelers were advised to check flight updates regularly and remain in contact with airlines for rebooking options as authorities continued to monitor conditions. Airport operators and aviation authorities are working to restore normal operations as weather conditions improve, although further delays remain possible if wind speeds remain elevated. The situation has also affected tourism flows, as Madeira is a key destination and disruptions during busy periods can impact both arrivals and departures significantly.
The latest cancellations reflect the vulnerability of air travel to extreme weather events, particularly in regions with complex geographic conditions. As Portugal moves further into the spring travel period, authorities are expected to continue monitoring weather developments closely to minimize disruptions. Meanwhile, airlines and airport operators are preparing contingency measures to handle passenger flow and maintain operational stability as conditions gradually improve.
