Air France-KLM Bids for TAP Portugal as Rivals Race

Air France-KLM has made a non-binding offer for TAP Air Portugal, with IAG and Lufthansa also in the running. What it means for travellers.

The battle for TAP Air Portugal is heating up. Air France-KLM has submitted a non-binding offer for a minority stake in Portugal's flag carrier, adding a new dimension to one of Europe's most closely watched airline deals. The move comes as the deadline for rival bids from IAG (the parent of British Airways and Iberia) and Lufthansa Group draws near.

Three European Giants in the Running

TAP Air Portugal has long been considered a strategic prize for Europe's major airline groups. The carrier operates a strong network connecting Portugal — and by extension, all of Europe — to Brazil, Africa and North America, making it a valuable partner for any of the continent's big three alliances.

Air France-KLM's bid for a minority stake signals that the Franco-Dutch group sees TAP as a way to strengthen its position on lucrative routes to South America and lusophone Africa. Meanwhile, IAG and Lufthansa Group are reportedly preparing their own proposals before the deadline closes, setting the stage for a rare three-way contest for a European national airline.

What This Means for European Travellers

For passengers, the outcome of this deal could reshape route networks, frequent-flyer programmes and pricing across Europe for years to come. If Air France-KLM succeeds, TAP's Lisbon and Porto hubs could become more closely integrated with the SkyTeam alliance, potentially offering smoother connections through Amsterdam, Paris and beyond.

An IAG acquisition, on the other hand, would bring TAP into the oneworld fold alongside British Airways, Iberia and Vueling — creating a powerful Iberian corridor. And a Lufthansa Group deal would expand the Star Alliance's already dominant European footprint even further.

Whichever group prevails, travellers flying to and from Portugal can expect changes to codeshare agreements, loyalty programmes and possibly even new direct routes as the winning bidder seeks to maximise TAP's network potential.

Portugal: A Gateway Worth Fighting For

Portugal's popularity as a destination has surged in recent years, with Lisbon and Porto consistently ranking among Europe's most visited cities. TAP's position as the primary carrier serving these hubs — along with its strong transatlantic network — makes the airline a uniquely attractive acquisition target.

The Portuguese government's decision to open TAP to outside investment has drawn interest from all three major European airline groups, underscoring just how valuable the carrier's route network and slot portfolio have become. Travellers planning trips to Portugal this summer should keep an eye on how the deal develops, as it may influence available routes and fare competition in the months ahead.

Search this route on Solvoya

Compare flight, train and bus prices to Lisbon and Porto on our search engine.

Search flights to Lisbon → · Search flights to Porto →

Not sure where to go? Use our Explorer tool to discover the cheapest destinations from your city, or check out Points & Miles search to make the most of your loyalty programme — whichever alliance ends up winning TAP.