Book cheap flights with TAP Air Portugal

Tickets / About TAP Air Portugal

TAP Air Portugal (Transportes Aéreos Portugueses) has been one of Europe's established carriers since its founding in 1945. Based in Lisbon at Humberto Delgado Lisbon Airport, TAP serves as the primary hub for Portugal and a major connection point between Europe and Africa. The airline operates a modern fleet of Airbus aircraft, including the A320 family, long-haul A330 and newer A359neo widebodies, positioning itself as a full-service, legacy carrier rather than a low-cost operator, though it does offer economy-focused travel options alongside premium cabins.

TAP Air Portugal is known for extensive routes across Europe, strong connections to Portuguese-speaking destinations in Africa and South America, and transatlantic service to major North American hubs. The airline is a member of Star Alliance, providing codeshare benefits and frequent flyer partnerships. Booking is available through TAP's website, mobile app, travel agencies, and GDS systems; advance bookings typically offer better fares, with online discounts common for early purchasers.

Check-in

TAP Air Portugal offers flexible check-in options to suit most travelers. Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and can be completed via the airline's website or mobile app, allowing passengers to select seats and add services before arrival at the airport. For those preferring in-person check-in, airport counters open 2–3 hours before international flights and 1–2 hours before domestic flights; baggage must be checked at a counter if not pre-arranged online. Mobile boarding passes are standard and reduce the need to print documents, though traditional paper boarding passes remain available upon request.

TAP Air Portugal requires passengers to arrive at least 3 hours before international departures and 2 hours before domestic flights to allow time for security and boarding. Families traveling with infants and passengers requiring special assistance can request priority check-in at airport counters. The airline enforces standard IATA baggage dimensions and weight limits, and checked luggage is weighed and tagged at check-in.

Seats

TAP Air Portugal allows seat selection both at booking and after purchase through its website and mobile app. Standard seats in economy are available for a small fee, typically €5–€15 per flight depending on the route and seat location. Preferred seats—such as extra-legroom seats, seats near emergency exits, or front-cabin positions—command higher fees, often €15–€40 per segment on short to medium routes. Families with young children benefit from TAP's policy allowing one adult and one infant under 2 years to occupy a single seat without charge; families are also accommodated with adjacent seating when available, though advance notification may be required.

Business and premium economy passengers receive complimentary seat selection, including preferred seating. Star Alliance frequent flyer members and holders of premium credit cards linked to TAP may also enjoy free seat selection as part of their membership benefits. Seat maps are displayed during online booking, making it easy to preview availability and choose preferred positions before confirming the reservation.

Fares & Baggage

TAP Air Portugal structures its fares across multiple cabin classes: Economy (basic and standard tiers), Premium Economy, and Business. Economy fares are tiered by flexibility and inclusions—lower fares may have restrictions on changes or cancellations, while higher tiers allow free modifications. Business Class includes priority check-in, lounge access, enhanced meals, and lie-flat seats on long-haul aircraft. Most fares include a personal item (bag, backpack) free of charge; carry-on baggage (typically 8 kg or 55×40×20 cm) is included in most fare types but may incur fees on the lowest promotional fares.

Checked baggage allowances vary by fare level: Economy passengers usually receive one checked bag (23 kg) free, with additional bags available for a fee starting around €35–€60 per bag depending on the route and weight. Premium Economy and Business Class include two or more checked bags at no extra cost. Special baggage—such as sports equipment, musical instruments, or excess items—requires advance notice and additional fees. Oversized or overweight bags incur surcharges, with maximum limits enforced by IATA and EU regulations. TAP allows free baggage allowances for infants and young children on long-haul flights, making it a practical choice for families.