TAP Portugal signed an agreement with Airbus to be the launch operator of the A330neo and also become the launch carrier for the Airspace by Airbus cabin brand in the A330neo – panned for 2017. In 2015, the airline placed a fleet renewal contract with Airbus which included 14 A330-900neos. The initial order was for A350-800s and then switched to -900s and finally converted to A330neos.
Trey Urbahn, CCO TAP Portugal said: “We are extremely proud to be the first airline to fly the Airspace by Airbus cabin in the new A330neo. Our passengers and flight-crews eagerly look forward to experiencing this innovative new cabin design. Furthermore, the Airspace cabin represents an exciting and flexible canvas onto which we can project the TAP brand.”
Highlights of TAP’s Airspace cabin will include: a new welcome area; the latest mood LED-based lighting system with 16.7 million possible color variations; larger overhead bins; new contemporary lavatories and latest-generation IFE and connectivity. The Airspace cabin ambience ensures passengers’ well-being, while the signature details and iconic elements will be recognizable throughout the cabin.
The relationship between Airbus and Portugal dates back to 1987 when TAP, then Air Portugal, ordered three A310s. Today TAP has an all Airbus fleet with 61 aircraft currently in service, including 43 from the A320 family and 18 of the widebody family, with two additional A330s to enter service this June to support the expansion of the company’s long haul operations.
