TAP Air Portugal, the national airline of Portugal, has been a cornerstone of the country’s aviation industry since 1945. With a strong emphasis on connectivity, innovation, and tradition, TAP has become one of Europe’s most recognized carriers, offering travelers a reliable bridge between Europe, the Americas, and Africa.
A Legacy of Portuguese Aviation
TAP Air Portugal was founded on March 14, 1945, under the name Transportes Aéreos Portugueses. The airline took to the skies on September 19, 1946, with its first commercial flight between Lisbon and Madrid, operated with a Douglas DC-3.
Over the following decades, TAP grew steadily, expanding into Africa and eventually to the Americas. In 1975, the airline was nationalized, solidifying its role as Portugal’s flag carrier. In 2005, TAP became a member of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance, further strengthening its global reach.
In 2017, the airline updated its brand name to TAP Air Portugal, embracing its national roots and reinforcing its global identity. This change aligned with major investments in fleet modernization, route expansion, and service upgrades.
Fleet and Aircraft
TAP Air Portugal currently operates a modern and efficient fleet of 99 aircraft, primarily composed of Airbus models. The fleet includes:
- Airbus A319, A320, A321 (including A321LR and A321neo) for short- to medium-haul flights
- Airbus A330-200 and A330-900neo for long-haul routes
- Embraer 190 and 195 aircraft operated by TAP Express for regional services
TAP is one of the first airlines in the world to operate a fleet composed entirely of Airbus aircraft. The A330neo and A320neo families are especially important to TAP’s sustainability goals, offering reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions while maintaining a high standard of passenger comfort.
Main Hubs and Global Connectivity
TAP’s primary hub is Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), strategically positioned as a gateway between Europe and other continents. A secondary hub operates out of Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) in Porto, supporting the airline’s domestic and European operations.
As of 2025, TAP serves over 90 destinations in more than 30 countries. Its network spans four continents:
Key Destinations:
- Europe: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Rome, Madrid
- Africa: Luanda, Maputo, Dakar, Bissau
- North America: New York, Miami, Boston, Washington D.C., Toronto
- South America: São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Recife, Belo Horizonte
TAP is one of the leading European airlines serving Brazil, offering more direct flights to the country than any other European carrier.
Cabin Experience and Onboard Services
TAP Air Portugal offers a multi-class configuration across its fleet to accommodate a range of travel preferences.
Cabin Classes:
- Economy Class: Comfortable seating, complimentary meals and beverages on long-haul routes, personal entertainment system
- EconomyXtra: Offers additional legroom, priority boarding, and more baggage allowance
- Executive Class (Business): Lie-flat seats on long-haul flights, premium dining, lounge access, and priority services
TAP’s in-flight entertainment includes individual screens with a wide selection of movies, TV shows, games, and music. Wi-Fi is available on most long-haul aircraft, and passengers can choose from various data plans.
TAP takes pride in showcasing Portuguese culture through its onboard meals, offering traditional dishes and Portuguese wines on many international routes.
Frequent Flyer Program: TAP Miles&Go
TAP’s loyalty program, TAP Miles&Go, allows travelers to accumulate miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and services. The program is integrated with Star Alliance, enabling members to earn and redeem miles with 25+ global airline partners.
Miles&Go also features Club TAP Miles&Go, a subscription-based program that offers bonus miles, status upgrades, and travel perks throughout the year.
Fast Facts About TAP Air Portugal
- Full Name: TAP Air Portugal
- IATA Code: TP
- ICAO Code: TAP
- Callsign: AIR PORTUGAL
- Founded: March 14, 1945
- Fleet Size: 99 aircraft
- Destinations: Over 90
- Primary Hub: Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), Lisbon
- Alliance: Star Alliance
- Frequent Flyer Program: TAP Miles&Go
- Ownership: Majority owned by the Portuguese government (as of 2025)
Contact Information
TAP Air Portugal provides multiple contact channels for passengers around the world:
- Customer Service (Portugal): +351 211 234 400
- Customer Service (USA): 1-800-903-7914
- Customer Email: talktoususa@tap.pt
- Corporate Address: TAP Air Portugal Edifício 25 do Aeroporto de Lisboa 1700-008 Lisbon, Portugal
- Website: www.flytap.com
TAP’s customer service is available 24/7 for reservations, flight changes, check-in assistance, and general support.
Social Media
TAP Air Portugal maintains a strong online presence to connect with travelers and keep them informed:
- Facebook: facebook.com/tapairportugal
- Instagram: @tapairportugal
- Twitter: @tapairportugal
- LinkedIn: TAP Air Portugal
- YouTube: TAP Air Portugal Channel
These platforms provide real-time updates on flight news, promotional offers, travel inspiration, and customer engagement.
Looking Ahead: TAP’s Future
TAP Air Portugal’s future is focused on growth, efficiency, and sustainability. The airline has already committed to expanding its fleet with more A320neo and A330neo aircraft, helping it reduce emissions and improve operating costs.
In 2025, the Portuguese government initiated a process to privatize TAP, inviting interest from major European airline groups such as Lufthansa, Air France-KLM, and IAG (parent company of Iberia and British Airways). A successful privatization could lead to increased investment, deeper international partnerships, and long-term financial stability.
TAP is also working to strengthen its North American and Brazilian operations, aiming to increase frequencies and open new routes. Key growth cities being considered include Chicago, Montreal, and Fortaleza.
Sustainability remains a core part of TAP’s vision. The airline is investing in biofuels, optimizing flight operations for fuel efficiency, and implementing eco-conscious initiatives throughout its operations.
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