TAP Air Portugal has announced the reintroduction of its service connecting Lisbon to Manaus, Brazil, enhancing its presence in the Brazilian market. This new route, which operates three times a week, is set to provide travelers with greater access to the Amazon region and strengthen cultural ties between Portugal and Brazil.
New Route Details
The newly established route from Lisbon Airport (LIS) to Manaus marks a significant step in TAP Air Portugal’s strategy to enhance its Brazilian network. The service will utilize the Airbus A321neo, known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, making it an ideal choice for longer flights.
Passengers will enjoy a stopover in Belém, allowing them to explore another vibrant Brazilian city before continuing their journey to Manaus. This added flexibility is expected to attract both leisure and business travelers looking to experience the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Amazon region.
With the addition of Manaus, TAP Air Portugal now offers flights to 13 destinations in Brazil. This expansion not only solidifies TAP’s position as a leading European airline in Latin America but also enhances connectivity between Portugal and Brazil. The airline aims to cater to the growing demand for travel between these two culturally rich nations.
Implications for TAP’s Future
While TAP Air Portugal is expanding its services, the airline is also navigating complex discussions regarding its potential privatization. The Portuguese government is reassessing its strategy, particularly in light of ongoing negotiations with major airline groups such as IAG, Air France-KLM, and Lufthansa Group.
The government has expressed a desire to retain a majority stake in TAP, which has led to mixed reactions from potential investors. IAG, in particular, has indicated that it would only consider a bid if it could secure full control of the airline. This situation has prompted the government to explore delaying the privatization process until 2026, hoping for a more favorable valuation of TAP.