TAP Air Portugal recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating its 80th anniversary on Friday, March 14th, with a series of celebratory initiatives.
In eight decades, the carrier has moved from humble beginnings to its current status as a global airline.
TAP’s journey is a testament to its resilience, innovation, and a continued commitment to connecting Portugal with the world.
A Legacy Born in 1945
Founded on March 14, 1945, by Humberto Delgado, the airline initially operated under the name Transportes Aéreos Portugueses.
AP launched its inaugural commercial flight on September 19, 1946. It first operated a route between Lisbon and Madrid, using a DC-3 Dakota aircraft. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary aviation adventure.
Eight decades later, TAP Air Portugal stands as a prominent global airline, proudly representing Portugal on the international stage. It ranks among the top three national exporters, a testament to its significant contribution to the Portuguese economy.
In 2024 alone, TAP transported over 16 million passengers, showcasing its widespread appeal and operational strength.
With a modern fleet of 99 aircraft, TAP is poised for a busy summer season. The airline will serve 84 destinations, spanning continents. It supports 10 in North America, 14 in South America, 12 in Africa, 6 within Portugal, and 42 across Europe.
This extensive network will be supported by more than 1,250 weekly flights. Notable additions to the summer schedule include new routes from Lisbon to Los Angeles, Porto to Boston, Terceira to San Francisco, and the resumption of flights to Porto Alegre.
TAP Air Portugal’s commitment to safety has been recognized by Airline Ratings. It was as the safest airline in Europe and the eleventh safest globally for 2025. This accolade underscores TAP’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in aviation safety.
Looking to the Future
Luís Rodrigues, President of TAP Air Portugal, expressed his pride in the airline’s achievements. “We celebrate a historic milestone, the 80th anniversary of TAP Air Portugal.”
“Over these eight decades, TAP has grown from a small carrier, with two aircraft, to become a reference in world aviation, connecting Portugal to the world with excellence, innovation and commitment.”
He acknowledged the dedication of the airline’s workforce and the trust of its customers and partners, emphasizing the company’s resilience in overcoming challenges.
“We look to the future with ambition and determination, investing in fleet modernization, sustainability and continuous improvement of our customers’ experience. TAP will continue to be a bridge between continents. It promotes Portugal’s culture and economy and remains a symbol of our country in the world,” Rodrigues concluded.
Celebrating Portuguese Culture and Hospitality
To further highlight its role as a national ambassador, TAP Air Portugal premiered a new advertising film at BTL, Lisbon’s tourism fair.
The film portrays TAP’s aircraft as extensions of Portuguese territory, carrying the nation’s hospitality and values to every destination. This emphasizes TAP’s broader identity as a symbol of national pride.
“Voar É Preciso”: A Historical Chronicle
As part of the anniversary celebrations, TAP launched the book “Voar É Preciso,” a comprehensive chronicle of the airline’s eight-decade history.
Featuring over 700 images, many previously unpublished, the book tells the story of TAP through its aircraft, highlighting their pivotal role in the airline’s evolution.
Published in both Portuguese and English, the book includes detailed graphs, route maps, aircraft profiles, and a complete fleet list.
Elevating the In-Flight Dining Experience
TAP also unveiled the new edition of its “Local Stars” program at BTL, showcasing the airline’s commitment to culinary excellence.
Six talented Portuguese chefs, including Ana Moura, Marco Almeida, Lídia Brás, Ricardo Luz, Rita Magro, and António Galapito, will create exclusive menus for Business Class passengers on long-haul flights. This initiative brings the best of Portuguese gastronomy to the skies, enhancing the passenger experience.
Conclusion
TAP Air Portugal’s 80th anniversary is a celebration of its past achievements and a testament to its bright future.
With a focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and promoting Portuguese culture, TAP is poised to continue its journey as a leading global airline.
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