TAP Portugal

TAP Air Portugal stands as the proud flag carrier of Portugal, serving as a vital bridge that connects Europe with Africa and the Americas through its strategic location on the edge of the continent. More than just a means of transport, the airline embodies the warm, welcoming spirit of Portuguese culture, offering passengers a distinctively European travel experience. With a history spanning over seven decades, TAP combines traditional hospitality with modern efficiency, making it a preferred choice for travelers seeking connectivity and comfort. Whether flying for business or leisure, passengers can expect a journey defined by reliability and a commitment to excellence.

A Legacy of Connection and Growth
Founded in 1945, TAP Air Portugal has grown from a small national carrier into a major global player and a key member of the Star Alliance since 2005. The airline's primary mission is to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable air transport while promoting Portugal to the world. Its strategic hub in Lisbon serves as a convenient gateway, offering smooth connections for passengers traveling between continents.

Global Network and Key Markets
The airline boasts a robust network that is particularly strong in connecting Europe with South America. It operates frequent flights to major Brazilian cities, such as Sao Paulo, cementing its status as a leading carrier across the Atlantic. Within Europe, TAP provides extensive coverage, linking travelers to key capitals like Paris, London, Rome, and Frankfurt am Main. Domestically, the airline ensures seamless travel to the northern city of Porto and the beautiful island destinations of Funchal in Madeira and Ponta Delgada in the Azores.

Modern Fleet and Safety
TAP operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, consisting primarily of modern Airbus aircraft. This includes the efficient A330neo for long-haul routes and the versatile A321LR, offering passengers enhanced comfort and reduced environmental impact. Safety is a core value for the company; it is consistently recognized by AirlineRatings.com as one of the safest airlines globally and holds excellent safety audit records.

Awards and Recognition
The airline's commitment to quality has earned it numerous accolades. TAP has been repeatedly voted as "Europe’s Leading Airline to South America" and "Europe’s Leading Airline to Africa" by the World Travel Awards. These achievements highlight its dedication to service standards and its success in maintaining strong routes between diverse cultures.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, TAP Air Portugal manages inquiries and support primarily through its centralized global channels. Since the airline coordinates its network from Lisbon, all reservations, ticketing, and customer service needs are best handled via the official digital platforms or the 24/7 international contact center.

Official Website
The most direct way to book flights, manage reservations, and check schedules is through the airline's official website. This platform provides the most up-to-date information on connections and services.
www.flytap.com

Contact Information

To ensure accurate and timely assistance, passengers are encouraged to contact the global support line, which handles inquiries from all regions.

• Global Customer Service (24/7): +351 211 234 400 (International calling rates apply)
• Mobile App: TAP Air Portugal – Available for iOS and Android for booking management and digital services.

Social Media

Stay connected with the latest news and travel updates by following the airline on social media. These channels often provide quick responses to general queries and are a great way to stay informed about new offers.

• Facebook: facebook.com/TAPAirPortugal
• X (Twitter): x.com/tapairportugal
• Instagram: instagram.com/tapairportugal
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/tap-air-portugal

Emergency & 24/7 Support

For urgent matters, flight changes, or immediate assistance, passengers are strongly advised to call the Global Contact Center directly. The line at +351 211 234 400 remains operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring that support is available regardless of your time zone.

Baggage Policy

Understanding the baggage rules for TAP Air Portugal is essential for a smooth journey, whether you are connecting through Lisbon or flying directly to your destination. The airline offers a flexible policy designed to cater to different travel needs, ranging from light travelers on a weekend break to those embarking on long-haul adventures. Passengers are encouraged to review their specific fare type, as allowances can vary significantly between the "Discount," "Classic," "Plus," and "Executive" product families.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

TAP Air Portugal allows passengers to bring cabin baggage to ensure essential items are always within reach. The allowance depends on the travel class booked:

• Economy Class: Passengers are typically permitted one piece of carry-on luggage up to 8 kg (17 lbs) and one smaller personal item, such as a laptop bag or shoulder bag, up to 2 kg (4.4 lbs).
• Executive Class: Travelers in Business Class enjoy a more generous allowance, usually permitting two pieces of carry-on luggage weighing up to 10 kg (22 lbs) each, plus one personal item.

Dimensions: The standard maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage are 55 x 40 x 20 cm, while the personal item must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 40 x 30 x 15 cm. If your cabin bag exceeds these limits, it will need to be checked into the hold, and fees may apply.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance is determined by your route and fare type. It is crucial to check your ticket details before packing, as the cheapest "Discount" fares often do not include any checked bags.

• Standard Economy: Most standard fares (like Classic and Plus) include one checked bag with a maximum weight of 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Executive Class: Business class passengers typically receive an allowance of two bags, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs).
• Specific Routes: Flights to and from South American destinations, such as Sao Paulo, often have specific rules that may allow for extra weight or pieces in Economy class. Always verify on your booking confirmation.

The maximum dimension (length + width + height) for any checked bag is usually 158 cm. Bags exceeding this size or the weight limit will be considered excess baggage.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you need to bring more than your free allowance permits, you can purchase extra baggage allowance. It is highly recommended to do this online via the airline's website or mobile app before arriving at the airport, as digital rates are significantly lower than those charged at the check-in counter. Fees vary based on the route and the timing of the purchase.

Special Items: Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

TAP Air Portugal accommodates passengers traveling with special items, though specific conditions apply:

• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried in the cabin as your carry-on luggage if they fit within the dimensions. Larger instruments, such as cellos, may require purchasing an extra seat or must be checked as special cargo.
• Sports Equipment: Golf bags, surfboards, bicycles, and other sports gear can be transported. Depending on their size and weight, they may count towards your free baggage allowance or require a specific fee. It is advisable to register these items in advance to ensure space is available on the aircraft.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For safety reasons, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. These include explosives, flammable liquids, compressed gases, and toxic substances. Lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on luggage and are forbidden in checked bags. Liquids in carry-on bags must be in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To avoid stress at the airport, weigh your bags at home to ensure they are within the limits. Soft-shell suitcases are often more flexible for fitting into overhead bins or tight spaces. Always label your luggage inside and out with your name and contact details. If you have a connection in Lisbon, consider packing a change of clothes and essential toiletries in your carry-on, just in case of unexpected delays.

Traveling with Pets

TAP Air Portugal understands that pets are part of the family, and they strive to make the journey as comfortable and safe as possible for your four-legged companions. Whether you are relocating or simply taking a vacation, the airline offers specific services to accommodate cats and dogs, ensuring they arrive at your destination safely. With clear guidelines and dedicated support, flying with your pet can be a smooth experience.

Transport Options

Depending on the size, weight, and breed of your animal, there are three distinct ways to transport them on TAP flights. It is essential to choose the option that best fits your pet's needs and to book this service well in advance due to limited capacity per aircraft.

In Cabin (PETC)

Small dogs and cats are welcome to travel in the cabin with you, provided they remain in their carrier throughout the flight. This option allows you to keep your pet close under the seat in front of you.

• Carrier Dimensions: Soft carriers are recommended and should not exceed 40 x 30 x 24 cm. Hard carriers must not exceed 40 x 30 x 23 cm.
• Weight Limit: The total weight of the pet plus the carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17 lbs).
• Allowed Pets: Only dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin.
• Comfort: The animal must have enough space to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Limit: Generally, only one pet carrier is allowed per passenger.

In Cargo Hold (AVIH)

For pets that exceed the weight or size limits for the cabin, traveling in the cargo hold as checked baggage is the standard alternative. The hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure animal safety.

• Container Requirements: You must provide a rigid, leak-proof, and well-ventilated crate (fiberglass or hard plastic) that complies with IATA regulations.
• Weight Limits: This option is typically available for pets (including the crate) weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs) on flights to/from or stopping in the US, Hungary, France, or Netherlands, and up to 45 kg (99 lbs) on other routes.
• Safety: The container must be secure with a functioning locking mechanism that the animal cannot open from the inside.
• Restrictions: Documentation and check-in must be completed at the airport counter.

As Cargo

Some journeys require animals to be transported as manifest cargo rather than checked baggage. This service is handled by TAP Air Cargo.

• When Required: This is mandatory for animals weighing more than the checked baggage limit, unaccompanied pets, or flights to countries with strict import regulations (such as the UK or Ireland).
• Special Handling: This ensures specialized care for larger animals or exotic species not allowed in the hold or cabin.
• Booking: You must arrange this directly through TAP Air Cargo or a specialized freight forwarder.

Required Documentation

To ensure a hassle-free check-in process, you must have all necessary paperwork ready before arriving at the airport. Requirements vary based on your origin and destination.

• EU Pet Passport: Required for travel within the European Union.
• Health Certificate: A valid certificate issued by a veterinarian confirming the animal is fit for travel.
• Vaccination Record: Proof of a valid anti-rabies vaccination is mandatory for almost all international travel.
• Microchip: The animal must have an identifying microchip implanted before the rabies vaccination.
• International Certificates: Specific sanitary certificates may be required for travel to or from non-EU countries (e.g., Brazil or the USA).

Service Costs

Fees for pet travel are charged per leg and vary depending on where you purchase the service (online or at the airport) and the route flown.

• In-Cabin Fee: typically ranges from approximately €40 for domestic flights to €150 for intercontinental routes.
• Cargo Hold Fee: typically ranges from approximately €80 for shorter flights to €300 for long-haul international journeys.
• Note: Prices are subject to change and are generally lower if booked online in advance.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet for air travel helps reduce stress and ensures a smoother journey for everyone involved.

• Carrier Familiarization: Let your pet spend time in their travel crate days or weeks before the flight to make them feel secure.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to prevent air sickness; keep them hydrated but avoid excessive water right before the flight.
• Comfort Items: Place an absorbent pad at the bottom of the carrier. Familiar items like a small blanket can help calm the animal.
• Exercise: Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise before heading to the airport to help them relax during the flight.

Restrictions

For safety and regulatory reasons, TAP Air Portugal enforces certain restrictions on pet travel.

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) are often restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks; they may only be allowed in the cabin if weight limits permit.
• Dangerous Breeds: Certain dog breeds considered dangerous may be prohibited or require special reinforced crates.
• Age Limit: Animals generally must be at least 12 weeks old (sometimes older depending on the destination) to travel.
• Exceptions: Recognized Service Animals (SVAN) usually travel in the cabin free of charge when accompanying a passenger with a disability, subject to specific training documentation.

Important: Rules and regulations regarding pet travel can change. It is highly recommended to contact TAP Air Portugal directly or visit their official website to verify the specific requirements for your route and to confirm space availability for your pet before booking your ticket.

Loyalty Program: TAP Miles&Go

The TAP Miles&Go program is designed to reward frequent travelers with a range of exclusive benefits and flexible opportunities to earn and spend miles. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, membership allows you to turn your trips into valuable rewards, enhancing your travel experience with every journey. Joining the program opens the door to a world of privileges, not only with TAP Air Portugal but also with a global network of partners.

Membership Tiers

The program is structured into multiple tiers, each offering progressively higher levels of service and recognition based on your travel frequency.

• TAP Miles&Go (Base): Entry-level membership where you start earning Status and Bonus Miles immediately upon enrollment.
• Silver: Includes 25% Bonus Miles on flights, priority check-in, and Fast Track access at selected airports.
• Gold: Offers 50% Bonus Miles, access to airport lounges, extra baggage allowance, and priority boarding.
• Navigator: The ultimate elite tier providing exclusive concierge services, guaranteed seat reservations, and miles that never expire.

Earning Miles

Accumulating miles is straightforward and can be done through various activities, ensuring your balance grows quickly.

• Flights: Earn miles on every flight operated by TAP Air Portugal and Star Alliance member airlines.
• Partner Airlines: Accumulate credit when flying with other partner carriers outside the alliance network.
• Ground Partners: Earn miles when booking stays with partner hotels or renting cars.
• Everyday Purchases: Use co-branded credit cards or shop at partner retail stores to boost your balance.
• Miles&Go Store: Purchase products or services through the online portal to earn extra miles.

Redeeming Miles

TAP Miles&Go offers flexible options for using your hard-earned miles, giving you freedom in how you choose to travel.

• Award Flights: Book flights to destinations like Lisbon or Sao Paulo using miles.
• Miles&Cash: Combine miles with cash to pay for tickets if you do not have enough miles for a full redemption.
• Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade your seat from Economy to Executive Class for added comfort.
• Extra Services: Pay for excess baggage, lounge access, or seat selection using your miles balance.
• Donations: Donate your miles to partner charities to support social causes.

Alliance Membership

As a member of the Star Alliance, TAP Air Portugal extends the value of your loyalty status across a massive global network.

• Global Reach: Enjoy recognition and benefits on over 25 member airlines, including Lufthansa, United, and Singapore Airlines.
• Seamless Travel: Earn and redeem miles across the entire Star Alliance network seamlessly.
• Status Matching: Gold status holders enjoy Star Alliance Gold benefits, such as worldwide lounge access and priority handling.

How to Join

Becoming a member of TAP Miles&Go is free, simple, and can be done in just a few minutes.

• Online Registration: Sign up via the official TAP website or mobile app to receive your digital card instantly.
• Welcome Bonus: New members often receive a bonus of miles upon registration to kickstart their journey.

Services and Travel Classes

Flying with TAP Air Portugal is about more than just reaching your destination; it is an immersion into Portuguese hospitality from the moment you step on board. The airline merges modern fleet efficiency with a focus on passenger comfort, offering service levels tailored to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a premium experience. Whether you are hopping between European cities or crossing the Atlantic, the cabin configurations are designed to meet diverse needs.

Economy Class

TAP’s Economy Class is designed to provide a comfortable and colorful journey. On medium and long-haul flights, passengers can enjoy ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests and decent legroom. The cabin is often divided into two zones: standard seating and "Comfort" seats (often indicated by red headrests), which offer extra legroom and a quieter environment at the front of the cabin. All seats on the newer A330neo fleet are equipped with individual on-demand entertainment screens and USB ports to keep devices charged.

Executive Class

For travelers desiring superior comfort and privacy, Executive Class (Business Class) offers a top-tier experience. On long-haul routes, such as flights between Lisbon and Sao Paulo, the airline features state-of-the-art full-flat seats that convert into comfortable beds. These seats provide direct aisle access and include anti-allergy pillows and soft duvets. Passengers in this class also benefit from priority check-in, fast-track security, and access to exclusive airport lounges before departure.

In-Flight Dining

The airline takes pride in bringing the flavors of Portugal to the skies. Economy Class passengers receive complimentary meals or snacks depending on the flight duration, often accompanied by a selection of beverages. In Executive Class, the dining experience is elevated with gourmet menus created in partnership with renowned Portuguese chefs under the "Local Stars" project. These meals are paired with an award-winning selection of Portuguese wines, allowing passengers to taste the region's rich viticultural heritage at 30,000 feet.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Boredom is not an option on TAP’s long-haul flights. The in-flight entertainment system offers a wide library of the latest movies, TV series, and documentaries. Many aircraft are also equipped with Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to stay connected. Various packages are available, ranging from free messaging plans for apps like WhatsApp to full surfing packages for browsing the web and sending emails.

Special Services

TAP Air Portugal is committed to making travel accessible and convenient for everyone. Families traveling with children can request special "kids' meals" in advance and take advantage of priority boarding. Unaccompanied minor services are available to ensure the safety of children traveling alone. Furthermore, the airline provides comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or specific medical needs, ensuring a safe and dignified journey from check-in to arrival.

Popular Destinations and Routes

TAP Air Portugal operates a vast global network anchored by its strategic hub in Lisbon, serving as a primary gateway between continents. The airline provides frequent and reliable connections across Europe, while also maintaining strong transatlantic links to South America and essential routes to domestic destinations. Below is an overview of the most frequent routes, showcasing the airline's commitment to connecting key cities and regions.

Securing the best fares with TAP Portugal often requires planning ahead. It is generally advisable to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance, especially for travel during peak summer months or major holidays. If your schedule allows for flexibility, consider flying during the shoulder seasons—spring and autumn—when the weather in Europe is still pleasant, but the demand for flights connecting through Lisbon is typically lower.

To find the most attractive deals and promotions, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or joining the TAP Miles&Go frequent flyer program. One of the best value-added features offered by the airline is the Portugal Stopover program. This allows passengers to make a stop in Portugal for up to 10 days on their way to or from their final destination at no additional airfare cost, effectively giving you two destinations for the price of one.

Streamline your airport experience by utilizing the online check-in service. For most flights, online check-in opens 36 hours before the scheduled departure time, allowing you to secure your boarding pass and avoid long queues at the airport counters. If you are travelling with checked baggage, look for the dedicated drop-off counters to expedite the process.

When it comes to seat selection, choosing your spot early is key to ensuring comfort, especially on long-haul flights. During the booking process or online check-in, you can view the seat map and select your preference. For travelers seeking extra comfort without the price tag of business class, look for EconomyXtra seats, which offer additional legroom and earlier boarding privileges.

Downloading the TAP mobile app is highly recommended for a smoother journey. The app serves as a comprehensive travel companion where you can store your boarding pass, track flight status in real-time, and even purchase additional services like extra baggage. Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect yourself against unexpected cancellations or travel disruptions.

History and Development

Founding and Early Years
TAP Air Portugal was established on March 14, 1945, as Transportes Aéreos Portugueses. The airline's journey began with a vision to connect Portugal more effectively with the rest of the world. Just a year later, in 1946, the carrier launched its first commercial flight, transporting passengers from Lisbon to Madrid aboard a Douglas DC-3. This historic route marked the beginning of an expansion that would soon see the airline venturing beyond the Iberian Peninsula to destinations in Africa and further afield.

The Jet Age and Transatlantic Expansion
The 1960s marked a transformative era as the airline entered the jet age. With the introduction of the Caravelle VI-R, flight times were significantly reduced, and comfort was enhanced. A major milestone occurred during this period with the launch of the "Flight of Friendship" service, establishing a crucial aerial bridge between Portugal and Brazil. This connection laid the foundation for the airline's enduring dominance in the South Atlantic market. By the 1970s, the fleet had grown to include the iconic Boeing 747, allowing for greater passenger capacity on long-haul routes.

Modernization and Fleet Evolution
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the company shifted its strategic focus regarding its fleet composition. A significant transition began as the airline gradually replaced its American-made aircraft with European Airbus models. This move streamlined maintenance and operations, eventually leading to an all-Airbus fleet. In recent years, this commitment to innovation was highlighted when the carrier became the global launch operator for the Airbus A330neo, a modern aircraft designed for efficiency and passenger comfort on intercontinental journeys to destinations like Sao Paulo.

Strategic Alliances and Commercial Growth
A pivotal moment in the airline's commercial history was its induction into the Star Alliance in 2005. Joining the world's largest airline alliance integrated the Portuguese carrier into a massive global network, offering its passengers seamless connections and shared benefits with partners worldwide. Following this, the company underwent significant rebranding efforts to modernize its image, including the acquisition of PGA-Portugália Airlines, which was rebranded as TAP Express to serve regional routes and feed the main international hub.

Recent Developments and Innovations
In the last decade, the airline has navigated through phases of privatization and restructuring, attracting investment that fueled further modernization. The "Atlantic Gateway" consortium played a role in refreshing the product offering and expanding the network in North America. Today, the airline continues to innovate with products like the popular "Portugal Stopover" program, which encourages travelers to explore Porto or the capital city during their layovers. With a renewed focus on sustainability and digital service, the carrier remains a central pillar of Portuguese tourism and global connectivity.