President Wants Helicopter Tourism for High-Income Visitors
Madeira’s president pushes for the return of helicopter travel to attract high-spending visitors and compete with other tourist destinations.
IN FOCUS
Before the Runway: How Seaplanes Brought the World to Madeira
Before Madeira had an airport, seaplanes landing in Funchal Bay provided the island’s only air link to the outside world. This came to an abrupt end after a tragic incident that grounded flying boat travel for good.
IN FOCUS
Essential Grocery Prices Rise 27% Within 3 Years
Over the past three years, essential food prices have increased by 27%, far exceeding the overall inflation rate.
Lisbon Court Finds “Strong Indications” of Corruption in Madeira Case
“We have never done anything illegal”. More than two years after the mega operation that continues to cast a shadow over Madeira, the Lisbon Court of Appeal says there are now “strong indications” of corruption-related crimes in the case.
DW Video Covers Tourism Pressures in Madeira
A DW Travel video explores Madeira’s record visitor numbers and growing pressure on popular tourist hotspots. The report includes an interview with regional secretary Eduardo Jesus discussing tourism management on the island.
Dermatology Waiting List in Madeira Reaches 3,000 People
Around 3,000 people are waiting for dermatology consultations in Madeira, as SESARAM warns of rising skin cancer cases and growing melanoma diagnoses among younger adults.
President Supports Next-Day Evictions of Tenants Failing to Pay Rent
With access to affordable rental housing being very limited, President Albuquerque today called for allowing next-day evictions for tenants who fail to pay rent. He said this would reduce pressure on the housing market.
5,500 People Checked on Madeira Hiking Trails Since April
Madeira authorities inspected 5,500 hiking trail users since April, detecting 43 unpaid access fees and less than a dozen illegal entries on closed routes.
44% of all 2025 Car Registrations in Madeira Were Electrified
In 2025, Madeira’s car market showed a clear shift toward electric and hybrid vehicles, with electrified vehicles accounting for 44% of all new registrations among nearly 3,800 cars.
Madeira Rents Rise 11.4%, Reaching Record €16.7/m²
Rental prices in Madeira reached €16.7/m² in April 2026, rising 11.4% year on year and setting a new record level.
Government Warns of Possible Flight Cuts to Madeira
As Iran sends threats and obstructs the Strait of Hormuz, warnings over rising energy costs and a possible reduction in flights to Madeira are causing growing concern within the regional government.