Lisbon to Enforce Night Flight Ban to Address Resident Complaints
Key Updates:
- Flight Restrictions: Lisbon authorities have announced a new ban on night flights at Humberto Delgado Airport, prohibiting operations between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM. This measure aims to address noise and pollution concerns raised by local residents and municipal leaders.
- Official Announcement: Portugal’s Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Miguel Pinto Luz, confirmed the move during a parliamentary session on November 7, 2024. The decision follows recommendations from a specialized working group.
- Resident Protests: Activists and campaign groups, including Zero and the “Airport out, Lisbon improves” platform, have repeatedly criticized the government for exceeding the weekly limit of 92 night flights. Reports indicate approximately 160 flights currently operate weekly during restricted hours.
- Passenger Growth: National airports in Portugal, including Lisbon, have seen record passenger numbers. In 2023, a total of 67.5 million passengers were handled, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 12.3%.
- Tourist Impact: As Lisbon introduces measures to address noise and traffic concerns, the city also continues to attract millions of tourists annually. Visitors now pay a tourist tax of €4 per night for up to seven nights, further emphasizing the city’s efforts to manage its booming popularity responsibly.
Broader Context
The initiative is being hailed as a “giant step forward” for balancing environmental sustainability with Lisbon’s role as a major travel hub. However, the effectiveness of enforcement and adherence to flight caps will be critical in maintaining the trust of residents and activists.
The curfew highlights growing concerns in urban areas globally about the environmental and social impact of increased air travel.
