What were TAP's first-half financial results, and what was the primary factor behind its loss?

TAP posted a €99 million ($115 million) first-half loss, primarily driven by a nearly 19% increase in jet-fuel costs, which the airline stated were immediately reflected in its expenses. While revenue rose 4.3% to €2.04 billion—supported by a 4.2% increase in passenger numbers—the surge in fuel prices significantly weighed on earnings.

What is the current status of TAP's planned sale, and who are the final bidders?

TAP's planned sale of a minority stake is at a critical stage: Portugal’s state holding company Parpública is expected to submit its assessment of two binding bids—from Deutsche Lufthansa AG and Air France-KLM—to the government, with ECO.pt reporting this final step would occur on August 28. TAP remains one of the last major European flag carriers still up for sale, and its strategic appeal includes being the largest European airline providing air links to Brazil.

Portugal’s TAP Hit by Higher Fuel Prices as Airline Nears Sale

Aug 31, 2026

TAP posted a €99 million first-half loss driven by a 19% surge in jet-fuel costs, ahead of a government decision on selling a minority stake to either Lufthansa or Air France-KLM.

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Portugal’s TAP Hit by Higher Fuel Prices as Airline Nears Sale

Portugal’s TAP Hit by Higher Fuel Prices as Airline Nears Sale

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