When planning a trip, choosing the right airline can make or break your travel experience. TAP Air Portugal, the national carrier of Portugal, is a popular choice for transatlantic and European flights, often praised for its competitive pricing and unique stopover program in Lisbon or Porto. However, reviews from travelers are mixed, with experiences varying based on flight type, class of service, and expectations. In this comprehensive guide, we dive into TAP Air Portugal reviews to help you decide if this airline is the right fit for your next journey.
Overview of TAP Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal operates a modern fleet, including Airbus A320s, A321s, and A330s, serving destinations across Europe, North America, Africa, and South America. Known for its affordable fares and a free stopover program, TAP allows passengers to explore Portugal for up to five days at no additional cost. But what do travelers say about their experiences? Below, we summarize feedback from various trusted sources, including Reddit, Tripadvisor, and professional reviews, to provide a balanced perspective.
Pros of Flying with TAP Air Portugal
1. Competitive Pricing and Stopover Program
Many travelers choose TAP Air Portugal for its budget-friendly fares, especially for transatlantic routes. For example, a Reddit user in 2023 highlighted TAP’s free layover program in Lisbon, which allowed them to explore the city en route to Spain. The stopover program is a standout feature, offering flexibility to break up long journeys while discovering Portugal’s vibrant culture.
2. Friendly Crew and Decent In-Flight Amenities
Over 200 Tripadvisor reviews praise TAP’s crew for their friendliness and professionalism. On long-haul flights, passengers in economy and business class receive complimentary meals, blankets, pillows, and access to personal entertainment systems with large screens, movies, and games. In-seat power outlets and USB ports are also available, enhancing the in-flight experience.
3. Business Class Value
For those seeking a premium experience, TAP’s business class on the A321LR has been noted for its lie-flat seats and local Portuguese flair, such as regional wines and cuisine. A review from The Points Guy described it as a solid option for travelers who don’t need an ultra-luxury experience but want comfort on international flights.
4. Reliable Short-Haul Flights
For shorter European flights, some travelers report satisfactory experiences. A Rick Steves forum user who flew from Marrakech to Lisbon in 2024 described TAP as “every bit as good as dozens of airlines” they had flown, with free water provided and no major issues.
Cons of Flying with TAP Air Portugal
1. Customer Service Challenges
One of the most frequent complaints about TAP Air Portugal is its customer service, particularly when issues arise. A Reddit user in 2023 shared a frustrating experience where their booking was mysteriously canceled, and TAP’s customer service was unresponsive, leading to a $2,000 loss to rebook. Similarly, a Trustpilot review from 2025 described a hidden currency conversion fee that cost the traveler an extra $240, with no resolution despite multiple attempts to contact TAP.
2. Strict Baggage Policies
TAP is known for enforcing strict baggage weight and size limits, especially for carry-ons. A Reddit user in 2022 was charged $125 at the gate for a carry-on exceeding the 8kg limit by just two pounds. Another traveler on the Rick Steves forum noted that TAP weighed their carry-on and enforced policies rigidly, which added stress to the boarding process.
3. Inconsistent Flight Reliability
Cancellations and delays are a recurring theme in TAP Air Portugal reviews. A Business Insider review from 2025 detailed multiple canceled flights and overbooking issues on routes to Lisbon and Madeira, raising concerns about reliability. A Trustpilot reviewer in 2025 also reported a six-day luggage delay on a flight from London to Porto, with no compensation received after months of follow-up.
4. Budget-Like Experience on Some Routes
Despite being a national carrier, TAP is often described as operating like a budget airline. A Tripadvisor reviewer in 2024 criticized the lack of complimentary food and drinks on shorter flights, poor food quality on long-haul routes, and the absence of in-seat charging on a nine-hour flight. These inconsistencies can catch travelers off guard, especially those expecting full-service amenities.
TAP Air Portugal in 2025: Recent Traveler Feedback
Recent reviews from 2025 highlight both positive and negative trends. On the positive side, TAP’s business class continues to receive praise for its value, with direct flights from major U.S. cities like San Francisco to Lisbon being a highlight for award travelers. However, negative feedback persists regarding customer service and operational issues. A Trustpilot review from July 2025 described TAP as “the worst airline ever” due to unresolved luggage and compensation issues. An X post from the same month recounted a 20-minute delay in a shuttle under the sun, pointing to operational inefficiencies.
Tips for Flying with TAP Air Portugal
Based on traveler feedback, here are some practical tips to ensure a smoother experience with TAP Air Portugal:
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Check Baggage Policies: Weigh and measure your carry-on and personal items before arriving at the airport to avoid unexpected fees. TAP enforces an 8kg limit for carry-ons on most flights.
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Book Early for Better Fares: Prices can increase significantly after cancellations or rebookings, as noted by a Reddit user whose tickets rose by $250 per person after multiple cancellations.
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Use the Stopover Program: Take advantage of TAP’s free stopover in Lisbon or Porto to explore Portugal without additional flight costs.
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Contact Customer Service Early: If issues arise, reach out to TAP promptly via multiple channels (phone, email, or social media) and document all interactions for potential escalation to EU or U.S. authorities.
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Consider Business Class for Long-Haul: If budget allows, TAP’s business class offers better value and comfort, especially on transatlantic routes.
Is TAP Air Portugal Worth It?
TAP Air Portugal reviews paint a picture of an airline with significant strengths and notable weaknesses. Its competitive pricing, free stopover program, and friendly crew make it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers and those looking to explore Portugal. However, strict baggage policies, inconsistent reliability, and poor customer service can detract from the experience, particularly when issues arise.
For short-haul European flights, TAP is often described as adequate, especially if you follow their baggage rules and manage expectations. For long-haul flights, the experience varies by class—business class offers good value, while economy may feel more like a budget airline. If reliability and customer service are top priorities, you may want to explore alternatives like Azores Airlines for routes to Portugal, as suggested by a Reddit user.
Conclusion
TAP Air Portugal can be a great choice for travelers seeking affordable fares and a chance to explore Lisbon or Porto via its stopover program. However, it’s essential to weigh the potential risks of cancellations, baggage fees, and customer service challenges. By preparing in advance and setting realistic expectations, you can maximize your chances of a positive experience with TAP Air Portugal in 2025.
Disclaimer: This article is based on aggregated traveler reviews and experiences from various online platforms, including Reddit, Tripadvisor, Trustpilot, Business Insider, and The Points Guy. Individual experiences may vary, and we recommend checking TAP’s official website for the latest policies and fare details.
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