The Lufthansa Group has officially expressed its intention to participate as a bidder in the privatization process of TAP Air Portugal, becoming the second company to formalize its interest in the Portuguese airline, after Air France-KLM. The German company submitted a letter of interest to Parpública, the Portuguese state-owned company overseeing the process, within the established deadline. The initial goal is to acquire a minority stake, with the aim of establishing a long-term partnership to ensure the sustainable development of TAP.
Commitment to Portuguese Identity and Global Expansion
Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, stated: “The Lufthansa Group welcomes the privatization process initiated by the Portuguese government. Our goal is to strengthen Portugal’s global connectivity, preserve TAP’s Portuguese identity, and ensure the airline’s sustainable growth.”
Spohr emphasized TAP’s strategic relevance to the European airline industry, noting that the company is already a member of Star Alliance and that Lufthansa maintains a significant presence in the country.
→ Lufthansa Group to Offer Over 14,000 Weekly Connections in Summer 2026
Over 70 Years of Presence in Portugal
The Lufthansa Group’s relationship with Portugal dates back more than seven decades. Currently, its airlines operate more than 280 weekly flights to and from the country. Furthermore, it employs over 400 professionals in Portuguese territory, a number that will increase to 1,000 workers by 2030 with the construction of a new Lufthansa Technik center in Santa Maria da Feira, near Porto. This center will be dedicated to the repair of aircraft and engine components.
Lisbon as an Atlantic Hub for the Group
A potential cooperation with TAP would strengthen Lisbon’s role as an Atlantic hub within the Lufthansa Group network. This would open new opportunities to expand connectivity between Europe and key regions such as South America, Africa, and North America.
Expertise in Consolidation Without Losing Identity
The Lufthansa Group has been a key player in the consolidation of the European airline sector. It has successfully integrated airlines such as SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and, more recently, ITA Airways, while always respecting their national identities. This track record, combined with its size, experience, and financial strength, positions the group as an ideal partner to enhance TAP’s role as an ambassador for Portugal worldwide.
This move reinforces Lufthansa’s strategy of establishing itself as a global leader, while committing to sustainable growth and respect for the cultural roots of its partners.
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