TAP Portugal to Be First A330neo Operator and to Launch Airspace Cabin

TAP Portugal has signed an agreement with Airbus to be the first operator of the new A330neo widebody.

As a result, TAP Portugal also will be the launch carrier for the Airspace by Airbus cabin brand in the A330neo.

On November 13, 2015, Airbus announced TAP Portugal had signed a purchase agreement for 14 A330-900neo widebodies. However, the new order replaced TAP’s previous order for 12 A350-900s, which the carrier canceled

In 2015, the airline placed a 53-aircraft fleet renewal contract with Airbus which included an order for 14 A330-900neos to replace TAP’s previous order for 12 A350-900s.

Passengers will experience the Airspace by Airbus cabin for the first time when TAP Portugal’s first A330-900neo enters service at the end of 2017.

TAP’s A330-900neo Airspace cabin will include a new welcome area; a new mood LED-based lighting system with 16.7 million possible lighting-color variations; larger overhead bins; new contemporary lavatories; and latest-generation IFE and connectivity.

The ‘Airspace by Airbus’ cabin-interior design brand encompasses four design elements: comfort, ambience, service and design

The relationship between Airbus and Portugal dates back to 1987 when TAP, then Air Portugal, ordered three Airbus A310s.

Today TAP is an all-Airbus operator and the largest operator of Airbus aircraft in Portugal, with 61 aircraft now in service.

These include 43 A320-family jets, 14 A330-200s and four A340-300s. TAP Portugal also has two additional A330-200s on order and due to enter service this June to support the expansion of the carrier’s long-haul operations.

All ‘Airspace by Airbus’ cabins will have consistently recognizable design elements, such as clean, straight lines; clear surfaces; and ambient lighting

TAP Portugal also has placed orders for 15 A320neos and 24 A321neos.

Airbus launched the A330neo program in July 2014, offering two versions, the A330-800neo and the A330-900neo.

Deliveries of  A330neos are scheduled to start at the end of 2017.