Lufthansa Group Confirms Interest in TAP Air Portugal Privatisation
Published: 22 November 2025
By Rupert the Reindeer, AppSavvyTraveller Editorial Team
Lufthansa Group formally enters the TAP Air Portugal privatisation process
The Lufthansa Group has officially submitted its letter of interest to participate in the Portuguese government’s privatisation of TAP Air Portugal. The letter, delivered to state holding company Parpública within the designated timeframe, confirms Lufthansa’s intention to acquire an initial minority stake and pursue a long-term strategic partnership with TAP.
The proposal seeks to secure TAP’s role as Portugal’s national airline while strengthening its global competitiveness. The move also places Lufthansa among the first major European airline groups to publicly confirm its formal participation in the process.
Why this matters for travellers
If Lufthansa succeeds in acquiring a share of TAP Air Portugal, it could reshape the connectivity landscape between Europe, South America, Africa, and North America — regions where TAP has historically maintained strong networks.
For travellers, the potential partnership may lead to more aligned schedules, integrated ticketing across Lufthansa Group airlines, and improved access to Star Alliance benefits. It could also strengthen Lisbon’s position as a key Atlantic hub, offering smoother transfers for long-haul journeys.
Given the ongoing consolidation trend in Europe’s aviation market, the TAP privatisation is one of the most closely watched developments of 2025.
Lufthansa CEO emphasises long-term commitment
Carsten Spohr, Chairman and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, stated:
“The Lufthansa Group welcomes the Portuguese government’s privatization process. Our goal is to strengthen Portugal’s global connectivity, preserve TAP’s Portuguese identity, and ensure the airline’s sustainable growth.”
Spohr added that TAP remains strategically important to Europe’s aviation sector, highlighting its Star Alliance membership and its strong positions in transatlantic markets.
Context: Lufthansa’s long history in Portugal
Lufthansa has been present in Portugal for more than 70 years, with over 280 weekly flights currently operated to and from the country. More than 400 staff are employed locally, and that number is projected to rise to 1,000 by 2030 following investment in a new Lufthansa Technik facility near Porto.
The proposed partnership, Lufthansa argues, would build on this existing presence and provide TAP with stability and expertise during its next stage of development.
Possible implications: network development and hub strategy
Should Lufthansa acquire a stake in TAP, several outcomes are likely:
- Lisbon would be strengthened as an Atlantic hub, benefiting from closer integration with Lufthansa’s major networks in Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Vienna, and Brussels.
- Star Alliance synergy would deepen, improving connectivity for passengers holding status across member airlines.
- Potential fare harmonisation may occur, with more joint pricing initiatives and code-shares.
- Operational efficiencies could be realised as TAP gains access to Lufthansa Group’s procurement, maintenance, and digital investment structures.
However, the Portuguese government remains committed to protecting TAP’s national identity — a position Lufthansa publicly supports.
Lufthansa’s consolidation track record
Lufthansa has a strong history of acquiring and rehabilitating European national carriers while retaining their brand identities. Its successful integrations include SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and, most recently, ITA Airways.
In each case, the airline group maintained the carriers’ distinctive branding and cultural ties while strengthening financial stability and international connectivity.
Industry analysts note that TAP, with its large Brazilian network and strong African links, offers complementary strengths not currently present elsewhere in the Group.
What this means for travellers
For travellers using TAP or Lufthansa:
- Better onward connections via Lisbon into South America and West Africa
- More efficient European transfers thanks to shared scheduling and ticketing
- Potentially improved digital experience through integrated apps and mobile bookings
- Broader loyalty benefits across Miles & More and TAP Miles&Go
- Greater long-haul flight choice, especially for UK and central European travellers connecting via Lisbon
If the bid progresses, these improvements may be phased in gradually over the next few years.
Last Updated
22 November 2025
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