TAP Air Portugal Introduces Direct Lisbon–Curitiba Route Starting July 2026

New Air Route Connecting Portugal and Brazil

TAP Air Portugal is set to launch an exciting new air route linking Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, with Curitiba, the vibrant capital of Paraná in Brazil. This direct connection is scheduled to commence on July 2, 2026, with tickets going on sale from November 11, 2025. Flights will operate three times weekly, offering unprecedented connectivity between Europe and the southern region of Brazil.

Operated by TAP’s A330-200 aircraft, equipped to accommodate 269 passengers, the service will follow a route Lisbon (LIS) – Curitiba (CWB) – Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – Lisbon (LIS), running on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This route fortifies TAP’s already strong network in Brazil, enhancing its role as a key bridge between Europe and South America.

Statements from Regional and Airline Officials

Ratinho Junior, Governor of Paraná, highlighted the immense potential the new flights bring, noting that this direct link will elevate Paraná’s status internationally, attract more European visitors, and expand business opportunities between Brazil and Europe.

Carlos Antunes, TAP’s Director for the Americas, emphasized the strategic importance of Brazil to TAP’s global operations. With this route, TAP expands its footprint beyond numerous Brazilian cities already served, such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, deepening Portugal's historical, cultural, and economic ties with Brazil. The airline aims to offer passengers enhanced connectivity, comfort, and a distinctive travel experience.

Historical Context of Flight Connections Between Europe and Brazil

The air connection between Europe and Brazil has long been a pillar of international travel and commerce, especially given the cultural and historical bonds shared between Portugal and its former colony. Over the decades, TAP Air Portugal has steadily increased its presence in Brazil, now serving 14 Brazilian cities—the broadest reach among European carriers.

This new Lisbon–Curitiba route is a natural progression in TAP’s expansion in South America, reflecting a growing demand for direct flights in this bustling air corridor. Historically, Brazilian carriers such as TAM and GOL have dominated domestic and regional flights, while TAP has maintained a unique position linking several European cities with Brazil's urban centers.

Flight Network Overview

The Significance for Tourism and Travel

This enhanced air connection will likely lead to increases in tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges between Europe and the southern Brazilian region. Curitiba is well known for its urban planning, green spaces, and cultural vibrancy, making it a compelling destination for European tourists seeking new experiences in South America.

For international travelers, this development means easier access to Paraná state’s diverse attractions, including its beaches, lakes, and rich cultural heritage. The new flights can also stimulate cruise and boating tourism in coastal Brazilian ports nearby by making travel logistics more seamless.

Further, expanding direct flight options can reduce travel times and increase luggage allowances relative to connecting flights, which is attractive for families, business travelers, and leisure tourists, including those interested in sailing and yachting activities along the Brazilian coast.

Forecast Outlook for Brazilian Tourism Connectivity

With a growing economy and an expanding middle class, Brazil’s outbound and inbound tourism sectors remain robust. Assuming steady economic conditions, Brazil’s international travel market looks poised for growth, with demand for European connections particularly strong.

Air connectivity plays a critical role in shaping these tourism trends, and with TAP’s expansion in Brazilian routes, accessibility improves for diverse destinations. Curitiba’s inclusion further signals increased interest in destinations beyond the traditional heavyweight cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

Transport infrastructure connecting Curitiba by highways, railways, and air supports this growth, while the presence of Afonso Pena International Airport positions the city well for receiving international and domestic travelers alike.

What This Means for Sailing and Boating Enthusiasts

While the new air route primarily facilitates passenger travel, it indirectly benefits the boating and sailing industry. Brazil’s extensive coastline and numerous marinas attract countless sailing enthusiasts every year. Improved flight connectivity to Curitiba can serve as a gateway for visitors interested in exploring Brazil’s coastal waters, lake regions, and engaging in yachting activities.

Travelers arriving via these flights can easily extend their trips to nearby beach destinations or lake resorts, rent boats for leisure or fishing, or even charter yachts to explore the vast and inviting Atlantic coast. Enhanced connectivity also improves access for yacht crews, suppliers, and marine professionals, boosting local maritime economies.

Summary of Key Benefits of TAP’s New Route to Curitiba

• Three weekly flights with modern A330-200 aircraft offering comfort and efficiency.
• Direct connection between Lisbon and Brazil’s Paraná capital, opening new tourism and business avenues.
• Strengthening of historical and cultural ties between Portugal and Brazil.
• Expansion of TAP’s Brazilian destinations to a total of 14 cities, the largest coverage among European airlines.
• Potential to boost the local economy of Curitiba and the broader Paraná region through increased visitation.
• Indirect benefits for sailing, boating, and charter activities along Brazil’s attractive coastal and lake waters.

The introduction of this new air link signifies a promising future for travelers, businesses, and tourism across the Atlantic. It broadens access not only to a top Brazilian urban destination but enriches the network of routes connecting Europe to South America, inviting more exploration and adventure.

For those passionate about marine experiences, sailing, and exploring beautiful waterfronts, this development opens fresh opportunities to combine convenient air travel with boating activities. When planning your next adventure to South America, consider how direct flights to cities like Curitiba can complement your itinerary for an unforgettable journey.

As the travel industry evolves, services facilitating international yacht and sailing boat charters also benefit from improved air access, allowing enthusiasts to easily combine flying with waterborne excursions in popular coastal and lake marinas.

Keep track of such promising travel developments and explore a wide selection of yacht and boat charters suited to every taste and budget through GetBoat.com, an international marketplace dedicated to cruising the seas with freedom and style.