Look, I remember boarding my first TAP Portugal flight years ago with that same question burning in my mind: is TAP Portugal a good airline honestly? I'd heard wildly different opinions – some friends raved about cheap fares to Europe, others complained about cramped seats. So I did what any skeptical traveler would do: booked a flight from New York to Lisbon to see for myself. Turns out, the answer isn't a simple yes or no. It depends entirely on what you value most when you fly.
On that first trip, I'll admit I was pleasantly surprised by the Portuguese wines offered in economy – a nice touch! But the boarding process at Newark? Total chaos. See what I mean? Mixed bag.
After 14 flights with them over the past three years (covering everything from economy hops to Porto to a splurge in business class to São Paulo), I've gathered enough real-world data to cut through the hype and the hate. Let's break down exactly what makes TAP Portugal stand out, where they stumble, and crucially, whether flying TAP Portugal makes sense for YOUR trip.
What Exactly is TAP Air Portugal?
Before we dive into whether TAP is a good airline, let's clarify who they are. TAP stands for "Transportes Aéreos Portugueses". Founded way back in 1945, it's Portugal's national carrier. They're known for being the main gateway connecting Europe (especially North America) with Portugal, Brazil, and several African destinations. Lisbon Airport (LIS) is their massive hub – seriously, walking through Terminal 1 feels like TAP central station.
One thing you'll notice quickly: TAP Portugal loves Airbus planes. Their fleet is almost exclusively A320-family jets for shorter European/African hops and A330s or the newer A321LRs and A330neos for those longer transatlantic journeys. They don't operate giant double-deckers like the A380. Good or bad? Depends. Smaller planes can sometimes mean fewer passengers and quicker boarding, but cabin space can feel tighter.
What Passengers Really Care About: The Core Experience
Forget marketing fluff. When ordinary travelers ask "is tap portugal a good airline?", they're usually worrying about these five practical things:
- Cost: Is the ticket price genuinely a bargain after adding fees?
- Legroom & Seat Comfort: Will I feel like a sardine for 7 hours?
- Reliability: Do flights frequently get canceled or delayed?
- Baggage Rules: What's the REAL cost of bringing my suitcase?
- Customer Service: If something goes wrong, will anyone help me?
Let's tackle each head-on, starting with the big one: your wallet.
Ticket Prices & Fees: The Good, The Bad, The Hidden
There's no sugarcoating it: TAP Portugal often advertises jaw-droppingly cheap base fares. I've personally seen $400 roundtrip from New York to Lisbon pop up. Awesome, right? But here's the catch TAP critics love to mention: their basic 'Discount' fare is extremely bare-bones. Think "no checked bag, no seat selection, no flexibility" bare-bones.
Here’s a breakdown of what each fare tier actually includes (or more importantly, doesn't include):
| Fare Type | Checked Baggage | Seat Selection | Ticket Changes | Miles Earning | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discount | None (Pay extra) | Paid only | Not Allowed | Partial | Ultra-budget travelers with only carry-on |
| Basic | 1 Bag (23kg) | Free 48h pre-flight | Fee + Fare Difference | Full | Most travelers needing one bag |
| Plus | 2 Bags (23kg each) | Free at booking | Lower Fee + Difference | Full + Bonus | Those needing flexibility & extras |
| Executive (Biz) | 2 Bags (32kg each) | All Included | Much More Flexible | Full + Big Bonus | Premium travelers |
My advice? Always price compare including baggage. That $400 roundtrip can balloon to $600+ once you add a checked bag ($60-$120 each way for Discount fares!). Sometimes, another airline's slightly higher base fare including a bag is a better overall deal. I learned this the hard way on a trip to Porto.
Booking Tip: Use TAP's "Stopover" program! If flying transatlantic, you can often add nights in Lisbon or Porto FOR FREE. I spent three amazing days exploring Lisbon on my way to Brazil without paying extra for the flight leg. Huge hidden perk when asking is tap portugal a good airline choice for multi-city trips.
Seat Comfort & Cabin Experience: Can You Sleep?
Let's talk about actually sitting on the plane. How does TAP Portugal stack up comfort-wise? It's a mixed picture heavily dependent on your route and cabin.
Economy Class Reality Check
On their newer A330neo and A321LR planes, TAP's economy seats are modern and decent. You'll find adjustable headrests and USB ports. Seat pitch (the crucial legroom measurement) is generally around 31-32 inches. That's fairly standard for European carriers, but less than what you might find on some US or Middle Eastern airlines (who often offer 33-34"). If you're taller than 6ft, it's tight. My knees definitely knew they'd flown transatlantic on an older A330.
- Crowded Feeling: TAP crams more seats into their cabins than some rivals. On older A330s, it feels noticeably dense (9-abreast vs 8-abreast on some competitors).
- Entertainment: Their "TAP Studio" screens are decent quality with a solid movie/TV selection. Download their app before flying – you can stream content to your own device for free, saving battery on the seatback screen.
- Food & Drink: This is a bright spot! Even in economy, meals are better than average. Expect Portuguese wines, cheeses like Queijo da Serra, and decent main courses. Free drinks (including wine!) are served throughout long-haul flights. I still remember a surprisingly tasty bacalhau (codfish) dish!
So, is TAP Portugal a good airline for comfort in economy? It's acceptable, not luxurious. Bring a neck pillow and compression socks. Manage expectations around space.
Business Class (& Premium Economy)
TAP's newer business class cabins (especially on A330neo/A321LR) are excellent. Full lie-flat seats (180 degrees!), direct aisle access for everyone, and Portuguese designer touches. The service tends to be attentive and the food steps up significantly. Premium Economy ("TAP Premium") is a solid middle ground – roughly 38" pitch, wider seats, priority services, and upgraded meals. Worth considering for longer flights if business is out of budget.
On-Time Performance & Reliability: Will You Get Stuck?
This is crucial. A cheap flight isn't a bargain if you miss your cruise departure or get stranded overnight. How does TAP Portugal perform? Data from FlightStats and my own log:
| Route Type | Average Delay (2023) | Cancellation Rate | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Within Europe | 15-25 mins | 1.5% | Average for EU carriers |
| Transatlantic (US-Portugal) | 30-45 mins | ~2% | Slightly worse than Delta/Air France |
| Flights to Brazil | 45-60+ mins | ~3% | Higher than average |
Why the longer delays, especially to Brazil? Heavy reliance on Lisbon as a single hub causes issues. Bad weather in Lisbon or Lisbon air traffic congestion can ripple through the entire network. My flight to São Paulo was delayed 4 hours once due to a late inbound plane from Toronto stuck at LIS.
Pro Tip: Avoid super tight connections via Lisbon, especially if heading to South America or Africa. Aim for at least 2.5 hours between flights. TAP's EU compensation for long delays (EU261 regulation) DOES apply, but getting it processed can be a bureaucratic headache compared to some airlines. Persistence pays off!
The Baggage Maze: Understanding TAP's Rules & Fees
Confusion over baggage fees is a top complaint about flying TAP Portugal. Let's demystify it.
Carry-On Rules
You get ONE main cabin bag (max 55x40x20cm, 10kg) plus ONE personal item (purse, small backpack). They do enforce size/weight limits fairly strictly at the gate, especially on full flights. I've seen people forced to check bags and pay fees right before boarding.
Checked Baggage Fees (For Discount Fares / When Adding Bags)
| Route Distance | 1st Bag Fee (Online) | 1st Bag Fee (Airport) | 2nd Bag Fee | Max Weight per Bag |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Within Europe | €25 - €40 | €50 - €65 | €55 - €100 | 23kg (50lbs) |
| Europe to North America | $60 - $100 | $100 - $150 | $150 - $200 | 23kg (50lbs) |
| Europe to Brazil/Africa | €60 - €90 | €100 - €140 | €150 - €220 | 23kg (50lbs) |
Key Takeaway: ALWAYS buy baggage allowances online during initial booking if possible. Airport fees are brutal. Check your specific fare rules!
Customer Service: The Biggest Hit or Miss
Okay, let's address the elephant in the room. When things go smoothly, TAP Portugal is fine. But when problems arise – missed connections, lost bags, schedule changes – this is where many travelers (myself included) have faced frustration. Is TAP Portugal a good airline when you need help?
- Call Centers: Long hold times are common (30+ minutes). Agents can be helpful but are often constrained by rigid policies.
- Airport Agents: Understaffed during disruptions. Getting clear answers or hotel vouchers during delays can be challenging (especially outside Lisbon).
- Online/App: Managing bookings online is generally okay. Reporting lost bags online? Functional. Getting a timely response to complex issues via email/social media? Hit or miss.
- Language: Portuguese and English are widely spoken. Other languages might pose more difficulty.
My worst experience: A 7-hour delay out of Boston due to a mechanical issue. Communication was poor, food vouchers were minimal ($12!), and rebooking options presented were terrible. I had to push firmly but politely for a better solution. Patience and persistence were key.
Frequent Flyer Program: TAP Miles&Go Worth It?
TAP's loyalty program, Miles&Go, uses a revenue-based earning system. You earn miles based on the ticket price paid, not the distance flown. Pros: Even cheap fares earn *some* miles. Cons: Earning substantial miles requires spending a lot on tickets.
Redemption Sweet Spots:
- Short-haul flights within Europe (as low as 4,500 miles + fees)
- Business class awards to Brazil using miles + copay (can be good value if booked well in advance)
- Star Alliance partners offer more options (like booking United or Lufthansa flights with Miles&Go miles)
Status perks (Silver, Gold) like lounge access and extra baggage are decent if you fly TAP/Star Alliance regularly. It's not the most generous program, but not the worst either.
So, The Big Question: Is TAP Portugal Actually a Good Airline?
The Verdict? TAP Portugal is a "good airline" IF you understand its strengths and weaknesses and align your expectations accordingly.
Choose TAP Portugal IF:
- You find a substantially cheaper fare than competitors (including baggage fees!)
- Lisbon or Porto is your final destination or a convenient stopover
- You pack light or book a fare that includes baggage
- You prioritize decent food/wine in economy over maximum legroom
- You don't anticipate flight disruptions or need maximum flexibility/customer service ease
Consider Alternatives IF:
- Legroom is your #1 priority (look at Delta, JetBlue Mint, Emirates)
- You absolutely need flawless customer service recovery (Singapore, Qatar, Virgin Atlantic often excel here)
- Baggage is essential and the competitor's fare includes bags affordably
- You're connecting beyond Portugal (TAP's intra-European network isn't as vast as Lufthansa Group or IAG)
Honestly? For the right price and the right route, flying TAP Portugal is perfectly acceptable and sometimes even enjoyable (especially with that Port wine!). But go in with eyes wide open about the trade-offs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flying TAP Portugal
Is TAP Portugal safe to fly with?
Yes, absolutely. TAP Portugal has a strong modern fleet (average age around 6-7 years) and maintains a strong safety record. It meets all stringent EU safety regulations and is a member of Star Alliance, which requires high safety standards. Their pilots are well-trained. Safety concerns shouldn't deter you from choosing TAP.
What's the best way to get a refund or compensation from TAP for a delay/cancellation?
First, submit a claim directly through TAP's website under "Customer Support/Claims". Cite EU Regulation 261/2004 for EU flights or delays/cancellations departing from the EU. Be clear, provide all flight details and receipts. If they reject or ignore it after 4-6 weeks, escalate to the Portuguese aviation authority (ANAC) or use a service like AirHelp. Persistence is often needed.
Are TAP Portugal's "Stopover" programs in Lisbon/Porto really free?
Essentially, yes! If you book a transatlantic flight (e.g., USA to Portugal to Cape Verde), you can often add multiple days in Lisbon or Porto at no extra airfare cost. You only pay airport taxes/fees which are minimal (often €30-€70 depending on the stopover length and destination). This is a MAJOR perk and fantastic way to see Portugal. Book it directly on TAP's website – look for the stopover option during flight search.
How strict is TAP with carry-on luggage size and weight?
They are moderately strict, especially at the gate for busy flights. If your bag is visibly oversized or bulging, you risk being forced to check it (and pay a fee if not included in your fare). Weigh and measure your cabin bag. The 10kg weight limit for the main cabin bag is enforced more frequently than with some US carriers.
Is TAP Portugal better than Ryanair or EasyJet?
For long-haul or comfort? Definitely. TAP offers a more traditional airline experience with included amenities (like meals and drinks) on longer flights, wider seats, and generally better customer service. For short hops within Europe, the difference shrinks, but TAP usually provides better legroom and less aggressive fee structures than ultra-low-cost carriers.
Does TAP Portugal serve good food?
Generally, yes, especially for an economy class airline. They incorporate Portuguese flavors (like codfish, custard tarts, regional cheeses) and wines/ports. Presentation and quality are usually a step above many US and European competitors in economy. Business class meals are genuinely excellent.
Ultimately, wondering "is TAP Portugal a good airline" comes down to your priorities. They offer genuine bargains to Portugal and Brazil, decent food, and a modern fleet. Just pack your patience for potential operational hiccups, carefully calculate baggage costs, and maybe bring an extra book in case of delays. Safe travels!
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