Firm Secure in Domestic Airline Operations in America
Let's talk about TAP's confidence in their US routes and United Airlines' performance in Portugal
TAP remains bullish about the success of their operations in the USA, despite the grim forecast by Tourism Economics predicting a 9.4% drop in international tourism to the United States in 2025 due to border policies. In fact, TAP is all set to kick off three new routes in the next three months, flying to Los Angeles, Boston, and San Francisco from Lisbon and Porto, bumping up their weekly flights to North America to a record-breaking 101.
According to a team in the USA constantly interacting with travel agencies, TAP is secure in the viability of these routes, as they're keeping a close eye on travel trends. Similarly, Darren Scott, United Airlines' Atlantic/Hawaii Planning director, echoes this optimism, stating that international demand for long-haul flights continues to be robust, and their services in Portugal are performing as expected.
However, concerns do lurk. The US Embassy in Portugal claims they're unaware of any complaints or troubles faced by Portuguese citizens trying to enter the USA, but the internet is buzzing with stories of stricter border controls. Authorities have been reportedly subjecting tourists to longer questioning, smartphone searches, summary revocation of entry, detention, and deportation.
These measures seem to have significantly impacted international travelers' plans, with Tourism Economics polling European travelers finding Portugal among the countries with updated warnings regarding gender identity and the perception that a visa doesn't ensure automatic entry.
But Portugal isn't losing steam. In 2024, North American tourists contributed 5.1 million overnight stays and 279 million euros in spending, making them the fourth largest spending group in Portugal, surpassed only by the UK, France, and Germany. This growth, despite ongoing economic pressures and logistical challenges, suggests that Portuguese travelers are adapting to new realities, prioritizing protected, flexible, and value-driven travel experiences.
Airline giants TAP Air Portugal and United Airlines are catering to these evolving needs by expanding their route networks, offering enhanced travel protection and flexibility, and introducing promotions designed to counteract negative perceptions about international travel. So, despite the rough seas, TAP and United are sailing full steam ahead with an eye on the horizon and navigation guided by traveler trends.
The recent expansion of TAP Air Portugal, with new routes to Los Angeles, Boston, and San Francisco, demonstrates their confidence in the continuation of tourism despite predicted drops in international travel to the United States. United Airlines' Director, Darren Scott, also expresses optimism about the continued strong international demand for long-haul flights, specifically in Portugal.
