Portugal Travel

TAP Portugal is the country’s national airline. Its original name was Transportes Aereos Portuguese. TAP Portugal flies to 77 destinations in 34 countries around the world. They have flights to North America, South America and Africa. TAP Portugal also has domestic flights going to some of the most beautiful cities in Portugal like Madeira and Porto.

TAP Portugal has been awarded as the “ Wold’s Best Airline Award” by British Conde Nast travel magazine, as well as the “ Best Airline to South America” by the World Travel Awards.

For the past years, there is news that TAP Portugal is up for privatization. Privatization can lead to the modernization of the fleet and giving more services and destinations to the flying public.

It is also publicized that privatization of TAP Portugal, together with other government owned companies was needed for the recovery of Portugal from financial woes.

There are some interested parties who want to own TAP Portugal. The Portuguese government also shows some interest in some parties that they think can help TAP Portugal improve and expand. One such airline company is the German airline company, Lufthansa.

Portugal’s Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho even urges Lufthansa to buy TAP Portugal. Coelho was quoted in the Handelsblatt newspaper saying “Lufthansa would be very well advised if it would develop the market in South America and Africa together with the Portuguese airline TAP”.

He also said that buying TAP Portugal is a good investment for the German based airline company. “I could imagine that Lufthansa is following our privatization program attentively in which TAP, too, is being privatized.” added Coelho.

There are no comments coming from the part of Lufthansa in regards to Prime Minister Coelho’s statements. Lufthansa’s Chief Executive just told the press that they are more concerned in increasing their organic growth for the time being.

On the other hand, British Airways is very vocal about their interest in acquiring TAP Portugal. In a press release, British Airways’ CEO Willie Walsh told the press that they are interested in TAP Portugal because of its strong business in South America, particularly in Brazil. “TAP is number one for travel between Europe and Brazil”, said Walsh.

Other airline companies that have shows interest in purchasing TAP Portugal are Latam and the TAM/LAN Alliance.

Whatever the result at this junction, those who are going for Portugal Travels and Portugal vacations will be happy if airline services are keep excellent and affordable.