During a debate on Government Action Lines for 2026 in the area of Transport and Public Works, Deputy Ip Sio Kai remarked, “There is so much talk about the Sino-Lusophone platform, yet there is not a single direct flight route to Lisbon”, newspaper Hoje Macau reported.
Ip emphasized that the proposed route is significant, as flying to Lisbon effectively means access to Europe and could serve as a stopover for Brazil. “If we had this connection, it would be very useful for us as a Sino-Lusophone platform,” he argued.
In response, the head of the Civil Aviation Authority, Pun Wa Kin, expressed that the Government “places great importance” on the development of aviation, particularly regarding its role in promoting economic diversification. However, he noted that airlines typically assess market demand, operational costs, long-term benefits, and route competitiveness before launching new flights.
In an interview with TRIBUNA DE MACAU, Secretary of State for Infrastructures, Hugo Espírito Santo, stated that it is “difficult” to establish this direct link in the current management landscape of TAP. He explained that TAP currently lacks an aircraft capable of flying directly to Macau. “Therefore, it is manifestly impossible to make a direct flight from Lisbon to Macau, at least via TAP,” he said.
Spirit Santo highlighted that if another airline shows interest—and if the slot issue can be resolved—the possibility of a direct flight could arise. He added that this project could continue to be considered long-term, especially with the involvement of a private shareholder who will increasingly participate in TAP’s management.
He also emphasized the need for the Government’s future private investor to influence management, allowing TAP to grow and assess the potential of new routes if they prove economically viable.
Addressing the community aspect, he recognized the large Portuguese community in Macau and noted that Portugal attracts many Asian tourists.
We have a lot of ‘sex appeal’ from a tourism perspective for Asians, but we are still recognized as just ‘scratching the surface,’” he asserted.
Espírito Santo also pointed out the challenges of creating a direct alternative, citing many indirect flight options available from the Delta region to various international hubs, which complicates the creation of a direct route.
Furthermore, the Secretary of State for Tourism, Pedro Machado, participated in the discussion, reminding that Beijing Capital Airlines currently operates flights between Lisbon and Hangzhou, and there are plans for additional flights. These developments underscore the ongoing interest in enhancing connectivity between Portugal and its former territories in Asia.
Ultimately, while the Government acknowledges the potential benefits of a direct air link between Macau and Lisbon, it remains cautious about the economic viability and logistical challenges involved. The discussions indicate a strong commitment to maintaining and strengthening connections with both the Portuguese-speaking world and the broader Asian market.
