Established in 1945, TAP Portugal is the national carrier of Portugal which has headquarters at Lisbon Airport. The airline also is a member of Star Alliance. In 2015, The Atlantic Gateway Consortium purchased 61% of the company from the Portugal government. This deal has an option to buy the remaining 34% from the government in 2018. In February 2016, the government signed a deal with the private association and gained back the control. Hence, 50% is owned by the government, 45% by the Atlantic Gateway Consortium and 5% by TAP employees.
The fleet
As per 2016, the airline has over 80 aircraft including TAP express. The consortium promised to buy 53 new Airbus for TAP. The new orders would include 14 A330 and 39 new A320 from Airbus. In January 2016, 8 ATR 72-600 and 9 Embraer 190 would replace Portugalia PGA Airlines. This would also include the new brand TAP Express. The new aircraft Airbus A330neo comes with more fuel efficient Rolls-Royce engine Trent 7000.
TAP would become the first to fly the new aircraft which will be delivered in 2017. TAP also would become the first to take the cabin layout called ‘Airspace’. This allows the airline to add more seats.
Destinations
TAP Portugal flies to over 76 destinations across 29 countries across the globe. As of March 2017, the airline plans to increase its destinations to already serving countries in Europe, Brazil, USA, and Africa. In January 2016, TAP announced to create Proto-Lisbon shuttle to connect destinations with flights every hour including round trips.
Business Class
Business Class passengers can take the advantage of the Blue lounge service. The business class is known as tap executive. The long-haul flights feature leather seats and IFE entertainment system with LCD screen. The A330-200 has 24 business class seats at the moment.
Onboard Facilities
TAP’s in-flight magazine named UP is available on board. This also comes a downloadable option on Apple iPad. A complete meal option is available on board the flight. The airline also a wide variety of beverages to choose from. However, there are meals available for children and infants as well. The cuisine includes meat, poultry, fish and traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Online booking and Check In
Several options are available for online check-in of the flights. The airline also provides an automated check-in option which is available on from Lisbon. Benefits from traveling with TAP by booking online at Musafir.