Social Democrats Demand Immediate Reversal of €30 Fare Increase on TAP Routes
The PSD parliamentary group submitted a motion of protest to the Legislative Assembly of Madeira on November 3, 2025, addressing TAP Air Portugal. The motion targets the recent increase of €30 per journey on flights between Lisbon or Porto and Funchal during the Christmas and New Year period. The party called for the airline to reverse the decision immediately, citing a lack of prior notice or preparation.
An increase of €30 per journey was identified on the Lisbon–Funchal–Lisbon and Porto–Funchal–Porto routes, “without any prior notice or preparation, adding this amount to the difference historically applied by TAP (amounting to €18 compared to the low season) in the highest economy class (class Y).”
Fare Increase Raises Total Ticket Prices Above €400 Per Route
According to the PSD, the additional fees mean the total cost per trip on the Lisbon–Funchal and Porto–Funchal routes now exceeds €400, surpassing the maximum limit eligible for the Social Mobility Subsidy. The party warned that this rise would affect family budgets and public spending, as higher fares make up around 80% of tickets used in the Island Student Program.
Regional Government Condemns TAP’s Decision
The Regional Government criticized the fee increase as unjustified, particularly during the busy holiday season. The Regional Secretariat for Transport and Communications (SRTAC) also intervened, urging the Chairman of TAP’s Board to reverse the commercial decision. Officials highlighted that the move contradicts the TAP’s public service responsibilities.
PSD Calls Fare Hike an Attack on Territorial Continuity and Justice
PSD representatives emphasized that “the mobility of Madeirans is not a luxury, but rather an obligation of the State and those responsible for it.” They argued that TAP, a state-owned airline, is violating principles of territorial continuity and fairness by imposing the extra charges without consultation. The party warned that such decisions undermine public trust and disproportionately affect residents of Madeira.
Source: Diário de Notícias Madeira
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