TAP Air Portugal Review | Air, Customer Service, Business class, Flights, Good Airline, Partners, Baggage Allowance, Baggage Fee

TAP Air Portugal Overview:

TAP Air Portugal, commonly known as TAP, is the flag carrier airline of Portugal. Established in 1945, the airline has evolved to become a major player in the global aviation industry, connecting Portugal with various international destinations. Here is an overview of TAP Air Portugal:

Founding and Early Years (1945):

• TAP Air Portugal was founded on March 14, 1945, as Transportes Aéreos Portugueses (Portuguese Air Transportations). The airline was created as a state-owned entity to serve as the national carrier of Portugal.

Government Ownership and Privatization:

• TAP Air Portugal operated as a government-owned airline for many years. In 2015, the Portuguese government initiated a privatization process, selling a majority stake in the airline to a private consortium, Atlantic Gateway.

Hub and Base:

• TAP Air Portugal’s main hub is located at Lisbon Airport (Lisbon Portela Airport). The airport serves as a central point for the airline’s operations, connecting domestic and international flights.

Fleet Composition:

• TAP Air Portugal operates a diverse fleet that includes Airbus and Embraer aircraft. The fleet consists of narrow-body and wide-body planes, allowing the airline to serve a variety of short-haul and long-haul routes.

Global Network:

• TAP Air Portugal has a comprehensive global network, connecting Portugal with major cities in Europe, Africa, North and South America, and Asia. The airline’s route map reflects its commitment to providing extensive international connectivity.

Star Alliance Membership:

• TAP Air Portugal is a member of the Star Alliance, a global airline alliance that facilitates cooperation and partnerships among member airlines. The alliance membership allows TAP to offer passengers a broader range of travel options through code-sharing agreements and shared facilities.

Focus on Africa and Brazil:

• TAP Air Portugal has a historical and strategic focus on routes to Africa, particularly former Portuguese colonies, and Brazil. The airline’s network emphasizes connecting Portugal with Portuguese-speaking and other key international destinations.

TAP Express:

• TAP Express is the regional subsidiary of TAP Air Portugal, formerly known as Portugália. TAP Express operates short-haul flights, serving regional and European destinations with smaller aircraft, including Embraer regional jets.

In-Flight Services:

• TAP Air Portugal provides a range of in-flight services to enhance the passenger experience. These services include entertainment options, meals inspired by Portuguese cuisine, and different travel classes, such as Economy, EconomyXtra, Business Class, and Executive Class.

Environmental Initiatives:

• TAP Air Portugal has expressed a commitment to environmental sustainability. The airline explores initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, adopt fuel-efficient technologies, and adhere to eco-friendly practices in line with industry standards.

Digital Transformation:

• Like many modern airlines, TAP Air Portugal has embraced digital transformation. The airline offers online booking, mobile apps, and other digital services to enhance the convenience of passengers.

Awards and Recognition:

• TAP Air Portugal has received awards and recognition for its services and operational excellence. The airline’s commitment to safety, customer satisfaction, and industry standards is acknowledged through various accolades.

Tap Air Portugal History

TAP Air Portugal History:

Foundation and Early Years (1945):

• TAP Air Portugal, originally named Transportes Aéreos Portugueses, was founded on March 14, 1945. The airline was established as the flag carrier of Portugal to provide air transportation services domestically and internationally.

Inaugural Flights and Expansion:

• TAP Air Portugal began its operations with a focus on connecting Portugal with other European destinations. The airline gradually expanded its route network, offering services to key cities within Europe.

Government Ownership Era

• TAP Air Portugal operated as a state-owned entity for many years, serving as the national flag carrier under government ownership. During this period, the airline played a vital role in promoting Portugal as a destination and facilitating international travel.

Privatization (2015):

• In 2015, the Portuguese government initiated a privatization process for TAP Air Portugal. A majority stake in the airline was sold to the Atlantic Gateway consortium, led by David Neeleman (founder of JetBlue) and Humberto Pedrosa. This marked a shift from government ownership to private ownership.

Fleet Modernization:

• TAP Air Portugal underwent a fleet modernization program, introducing new and more fuel-efficient aircraft. The airline incorporated Airbus and Embraer planes into its fleet, enhancing operational efficiency and passenger comfort.

Star Alliance Membership (2010):

• TAP Air Portugal joined the Star Alliance in 2010. The membership in this global airline alliance facilitated partnerships, code-sharing agreements, and cooperation with other member airlines, expanding TAP’s global reach.

Strategic Focus on Africa and Brazil:

• TAP Air Portugal historically maintained a strategic focus on routes to Africa, particularly former Portuguese colonies, and Brazil. The airline’s network reflected its commitment to connecting Portugal with Portuguese-speaking countries and other key international destinations.

TAP Express (Formerly Portugália):

• TAP Express, the regional subsidiary of TAP Air Portugal, was originally known as Portugália. TAP Express operates short-haul regional flights, contributing to the overall connectivity of the TAP Air Portugal network.
• In-Flight Services and Classes:

• TAP Air Portugal offers various in-flight services, including entertainment, meals inspired by Portuguese cuisine, and different travel classes. The airline provides options such as Economy, EconomyXtra, Business Class, and Executive Class to cater to diverse passenger preferences.

Environmental Initiatives:

• TAP Air Portugal has expressed a commitment to environmental sustainability. The airline explores initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, incorporating fuel-efficient technologies and adopting eco-friendly practices in line with industry standards.

Digital Transformation:

• TAP Air Portugal has embraced digital transformation, providing passengers with online booking platforms, mobile apps, and other digital services. This shift toward digital solutions enhances the overall customer experience and operational efficiency.

Awards and Recognition:

• TAP Air Portugal has received awards and recognition for its services and operational excellence. Accolades often highlight the airline’s commitment to safety, customer satisfaction, and industry standards.
• TAP Air Portugal’s history reflects its evolution from a government-owned carrier to a privately owned entity with a focus on modernization, network expansion, and global partnerships. The airline continues to serve as a key player in connecting Portugal with the world. Please note that developments may have occurred since my last update in January 2022.