Update on my trip to LIS yesterday: flew from BCN on Easyjet, arrived on-time but the taxi took 10' to the outside stand, then the buses didn't arrive for 8' (for TP flights it takes longer) then a standard long-slow ride to the main terminal. The good thing is that we got out just in front of baggage exit (below gate S18) so direct exit (TP would drop you at the far end of the airport, where passport control takes place). This was 10-15' faster. I headed to the lounge directly, but when I entered (11am) it was so packed that people stood with coffee whereever possibly could. Grabbed a fruit salad with yoghurt and left after 10'.
The return was on TP at 1900. Fast lane at securitu was empty, the airport was full as ever, everything packed to the doors, struggled to pass through duty free and shops to the lounge. At 1750, it was decent, at about 70% of its capacity. The food and drink selection, basic, what has been a norm lately, nothing new, nothing special, really. But was nice to have a dinner before the flight, which after almost 25' dly due to long waiting at the begining of the runway. Arrived on time.
U2 flight was 21€, TP one was 59€, the reason I took U2 on departure was the price, as TP was 125€. IF it wasn't for my *A gold status and earing miles/points it is not worth flying TP, the seats assigned were much better on U2, it took less to leave the aircraft/terminal and on-time departure/arrival was better. The confort is similar, but for 21€ and 1,25hrs flying time I would't complain.I used to fly TP return for 49€, but now it is 149€ or more for two intra EU flights with 90% delays.