The travel disruptions are being attributed to the arrival of the Pope in Lisbon for World Youth Day, starting today and lasting until Sunday, 6 August.

According to Ryanair: “Due to the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis to Lisbon from Wednesday the 2nd of August to Sunday the 6th of August, we would like to advise passengers of potential disruptions to your holidays during this time.

“Passengers flying to and from Lisbon on Wednesday 02nd August and Sunday 06th August should expect possible delays to your flight and disruption on your journey to/from the airport.

“We advise all passengers to monitor the Ryanair App on your day of travel as this will have the most up-to-date information regarding your flight. All the information regarding additional constraints within Lisbon Airport and Lisbon city can be found at the following link: https://www.lisboa.pt/circulacao-jmj.”

This advice has already been issued by the UK Foreign Office who have stated: “Portugal will host a visit from the Pope as part of World Youth Day from 1-6 August. During this period, you should expect an increase in the number of people using public transport and other facilities in the Lisbon area.

“Be prepared for road closures and restrictions on accessing the city by car on days when major events are taking place. There will be enhanced security checks at land borders from 22 July to 7 August.

“If you are travelling to Portugal by road during this period, you should familiarise yourself with the authorised border crossing points and allow more time to enter/exit Portugal.”