TAP Air Portugal has announced a strategic expansion of its presence in Southern Brazil, adding a fourth weekly frequency to both Porto Alegre (POA) and Florianópolis (FLN) starting in July 2026. This move reinforces TAP’s position as the primary bridge between Europe and the Brazilian South.
Expanded Flight Schedule
The new frequencies are timed to coincide with the peak European summer season:
Florianópolis (Santa Catarina): The fourth weekly flight begins July 5, operating on Sundays.
Porto Alegre (Rio Grande do Sul): The additional service starts July 6, operating on Mondays.
Strengthening Transatlantic Ties
The expansion comes less than a year after TAP resumed and launched these routes, signaling high demand and operational success in the region.
Strategic Investment: Carlos Antunes, TAP Director for the Americas, noted that the Porto Alegre boost fulfills a commitment made last year to consolidate the airline’s presence in Rio Grande do Sul.
Santa Catarina Success: Mário Chaves, TAP’s COO, highlighted that the Florianópolis route—launched only in September 2024—has already proven successful enough to warrant immediate capacity growth.
Economic and Tourism Impact
By adding these flights, TAP aims to:
Boost Tourism: Connect travelers from over 50 countries directly to the cultural and natural attractions of Southern Brazil.
Economic Growth: Facilitate easier business travel and trade between the European market and the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina.
Enhanced Connectivity: Provide Brazilian passengers with more flexible options for reaching Lisbon and beyond via TAP’s extensive European network.