A few days ago, I had the chance to fly TAP Air Portugal’s Airbus A330-900neo business class on the 7hr45min overnight flight from Miami (MIA) to Lisbon (LIS). While I’ll have a full trip report soon, in this post I wanted to share some initial impressions of the experience (in the other direction I flew American’s Boeing 777-200ER business class).
TAP Air Portugal has done an impressive job modernizing its long haul fleet, as the airline now mostly flies A330-900neos and A321LRs. TAP generally has the reputation of being one of the weaker airlines across the Atlantic, because the airline almost operates as a hybrid full service and low cost carrier, at least in economy.
The funny thing is that while TAP has very reasonable business class fares when paying with cash, the airline has historically been stingy with award availability. Fortunately the airline recently had some wide open award availability, so I couldn’t help but book.
While I came into the flight with low expectations, I have to admit that they were exceeded. I don’t want to suggest that TAP offers some world class product, but at a minimum this is highly competitive, and I wouldn’t hesitate to fly with the airline again.
The the seats were comfortable enough, the food was tasty, the entertainment selection was sufficient, and the crew was friendly and efficient. Let’s get into it…
In this post:
TAP’s A330 business class seats are well designed, but tight
TAP Air Portugal’s A330-900neos feature 34 business class seats, in a 1-2-1 configuration, with direct aisle access. TAP selected the Recaro CL6710 seat for this jet, which is the same that you’ll find on EL AL’s Boeing 787s.
This is a staggered configuration, where seats in every other row have the same layout. The ideal seats are the “true” window seats, since they are the furthest from the aisles and the closest to the windows (well, unless you’re like me, and stupidly pick a seat without a window).
The seat of course turns into a flat bed, with the footwell being to the side of the seat in front.
Now, while I have to give TAP credit for improving its business class product over the years, I have to say that this product feels quite tight on the A330. For example, EL AL has the same product on the 787, but that plane is wider. So when I was in bed mode, I felt quite “stuck” in this seat, and wasn’t easily able to move around.
So this isn’t my favorite business class hard product in the world, but I thought it was good enough.
TAP’s business class catering is fairly tasty
The catering in TAP Air Portugal business class was solid. After takeoff, the service began with drinks and mixed nuts. I appreciate how TAP showcases wines from Portugal, and I enjoyed a glass of sauvignon blanc.
The starter and main course were then served on a single tray, which I appreciate for a quick overnight flight (as TAP has the same meal procedure on the even shorter flights from Boston to Lisbon, for example). The starter consisted of poached halibut, vegetable ceviche, and arugula, while the main course consisted of cod with herb butter, saffron rice, pumpkin, zucchini, and tomato.
To finish off the meal, there was a “dessert trilogy,” comprised of ice cream, fresh fruit, and cheese. A box of chocolates, as well as port wine, were offered to accompany that.
Before landing, TAP has a standard breakfast snack, with no option. This consisted of a plate with cold cuts and cheese, some yogurt with berry compote, a fruit plate, and a croissant.
For short overnight flights, I think it’s all about serving something that’s half decent efficiently, and TAP did a great job with that.
TAP’s amenities & entertainment are a mixed bag
TAP Air Portugal’s business class amenities and entertainment were… not bad?
I liked the business class blanket, which was nice and thick, while the pillow was quite thin. Fortunately I could prop my hoodie under the pillow for a bit more support (I always need a hoodie when departing Miami Airport, because it’s like a freezer in the terminal, for reasons I can’t figure out).
The amenity kit was basic, but had the essentials, including socks, eyeshades, earplugs, a dental kit, and hand cream.
The entertainment selection was better than I was expecting, with over 135 movies, and over 70 TV shows, including some pretty recent titles.
TAP also has Wi-Fi on its A330-900neos. All passengers can get free messaging (with no photos or videos), and then Wi-Fi pricing ranges from €9.99 for a one hour pass, to €29.99 for a full flight pass, all with no data caps.
TAP’s business class crew was lovely
I’ve gotta be honest, I’ve had some pretty surly crews on TAP Air Portugal. While I don’t expect Singapore Airlines levels of service on all airlines, it really detracts from the experience when a crew is visibly unhappy to be at work.
That said, I have to give this TAP crew credit, as they were friendly. Each passenger was warmly greeted at the door by one of the flight attendants, and the ladies working in business class were all smiles, and had an eye for detail.
Service definitely wasn’t very personalized, which is to say that TAP’s business class service flow feels a bit like an assembly line, with the constant use of carts. But for the first time on a TAP long haul flight, I actually felt like the crew wasn’t actively unhappy to be there, so that was a pleasant surprise.
In fairness, it had been several years since I took a long haul flight on TAP, so I don’t know if I just got lucky, or if something at the airline has changed for the better.
Bottom line
I finally had the chance to fly TAP Air Portugal’s A330-900neo business class. I came in with low expectations, based on my previous experiences with TAP. So I was pleasantly surprised by the flight — TAP’s new business class seats are a huge improvement, the food was quite good, the entertainment was decent, and the crew was friendly.
TAP wouldn’t be my first choice across the Atlantic — that would probably be Air France, ITA Airways, Emirates, or Singapore Airlines (depending on the route) — but it’s a solid product that I certainly wouldn’t avoid. For example, I prefer the TAP experience to a vast majority of flights with Lufthansa, SWISS, LOT Polish Airlines, and more.
What’s your take on TAP Air Portugal’s A330-900neo business class?
I usually fly TAP once a year r/t LIS-BOS in Business because of the price. The flight is just long enough to eat & get in a few hours of sleep. The food has always been decent, no complaints. So long as they keep the price low, I will always choose them if I don't feel like using points elsewhere.
Had a similarly good experience on IAD-LIS last month. Throne seat on the A321 is solid and service on the quick overnight fairly efficient. Didn't feel low-costy at all.
We are taking the TAP A330neo in business class from San Franciso to Lisbon. Does the business class seat have an adjustable foot rest? We would we be better off taking another airline, like United from San Francisco to Barcelona and then a domestic flight to Lisbon?
Barcelona to Lisbon isn’t a domestic flight………
Politically, no, but in practical terms, it is; both cities are in the Schengen zone,
TAP is no worst than United. They are quite good actually.
They also just opened a smaller lounge in Lisbon in the non -schengen area. It was about time!
Lisbon airport is a problem especially for airlines. I always struggle to understand why so many passengers. I 'd rather transfer in Lisbon even if you don't get a jetbridge than to transfer in Istanbul where you have to run for almost an hour
I don't fly business class, only economy and I'd argue that in economy TAP is arguable one of the best airlines flying across the Atlantic. I would take them over any other airline, any day. The exit row seat on their A321s are the best hidden gem in the sky, IMO.
As someone else alluded to, LIS is a problem and unfortunately the airport's limitations can lead to occasional delays but I've been lucky with that.
I reluctantly tried TAP a few years ago as they have cheap J fares and credit to 200% on some Star Alliance programmes... And since then I repeated often (keeping an eye on full flats 321neo sometimes used on European destinations).
To me, it's TP over any US3 anyway.
LIS isn't the best airport at all (also foggy and windy sometimes) and boarding by bus is the rule more than the exception. However...
I reluctantly tried TAP a few years ago as they have cheap J fares and credit to 200% on some Star Alliance programmes... And since then I repeated often (keeping an eye on full flats 321neo sometimes used on European destinations).
To me, it's TP over any US3 anyway.
LIS isn't the best airport at all (also foggy and windy sometimes) and boarding by bus is the rule more than the exception. However Schengen immigration is always a breeze (in my experience) a few days ago a new TP lounge opened at the entrance of the non Schengen pier, this slightly helps.
Once on board, catering ex LIS is more than fine, crews are generally good and there is no fwd WC reserved for pilots. No later than last week, they went the extra mile to recover my phone which mistakenly slipped into the seat and this way in no way easy.
There are two problems with LIS. It is run by a French company who just seem to be fixated on making money rather than providing a good service. And they have been planning a new airport for ages but they can’t agree where to put it. One of the recently discussed options is to expand the airport at Beja. Look it up on a map !!! It’s mid way between LIS and the Algarve and isn’t currently connected to major road or rail links. PS LIS is connected to the Metro.
I fully agree. TAP itself is okay but is let down by the abomination that is LIS!
Hi Ben, any idea why TAP doesn't fly nonstop to Los Angeles? I don't believe any other airlines flies between Lisbon and LAX and feel it would have decent demand? At least seasonally?
Because forcing people to use both LAX and LIS together is just cruel.
TAP used to fly to Los Angeles via the Azores. Service commenced April 16, 1989 however am unsure when they stopped. They do fly to San Francisco.
There’s a large Portuguese diaspora in
Northern California of around 125,000. L.A. around 50000.
The reality is that TAP is the best bargain into or out of Europe to the U.S. Especially out of Europe. Even two days before you need to fly they often have really good paid J fares.
It's a model that if it spreads more to the U.S. and Europe would actually change the entire industry. There is no fathomable reason why UA or LH, as an example, should charge $5000K for a one way...
The reality is that TAP is the best bargain into or out of Europe to the U.S. Especially out of Europe. Even two days before you need to fly they often have really good paid J fares.
It's a model that if it spreads more to the U.S. and Europe would actually change the entire industry. There is no fathomable reason why UA or LH, as an example, should charge $5000K for a one way J ticket. Oh, well, other than greed and absurd management. They would actually sell their J seats rather than upgrade or allow redemptions if they would price them like TAP. Which is why there are rarely redemptions on TAP.
I don’t think you got lucky. TAP is a hidden gem based on my experiences two weeks ago flying EWR-LIS round trip and also on TAP intra-Europe. I was impressed by the service, and crew attitudes. All for half the price of business class on United. I saw nothing of the ‘discount carrier mentality’ on the EU flights of weighing or measuring carryon bags.
On the crew, my best flight crew experience ever was TAP. They decided to 'prank' the entire plane on April fools day by telling everyone immediately after take-off that we were going to Lisbon rather than Porto. As you can imagine, every call light went on and they spent the entire flight managing people's connection concerns. It was hysterical - and they announced the truth as the plan touched the runway. Has made me fond...
On the crew, my best flight crew experience ever was TAP. They decided to 'prank' the entire plane on April fools day by telling everyone immediately after take-off that we were going to Lisbon rather than Porto. As you can imagine, every call light went on and they spent the entire flight managing people's connection concerns. It was hysterical - and they announced the truth as the plan touched the runway. Has made me fond of TAP ever since. Not sure whether it counts as great service.
Please tell me that main was only one of the options. Fish as both a starter and a main would be terrible if there's no alternative offered.
usually they have 3 options, fish, meat and one of them vegetarian
that's been my experience.
they also partner with PT chefs so at least one of the main course option is usually a typical PT dish (Last time I flew it was octopus which I found quite interesting (and very good)
I’ll echo the many comments on TAP business class. Good value, particularly with buy up opportunities. Decent in flight experience & seat. Sub optimal transfer airport in LIS.
It’s on my list for a cash fare, if their schedule aligns with my plans.
TAP offers a very solid value proposition, usually combining attractive pricing (although the Brazilian routes can get expensive) with a good standard of service. The problem is that their IROPS handling leaves a lot to be desired- of course, this blog rarely comments on things like operational reliability for non-US carriers so this review is very much in line with those of other products.
True, all Brazilian Routes are amazingly expensive, certainly if you start in LIS. Except GRU, as that's not a tourism destination. Mostly you pay the triple for a 7h flight as you should pay for a LIS-GRU. But that's the business.
"The starter and appetizer were then served on a single tray"
You mean the starter/appetizer and the main/entree were served on a single tray...
"I prefer the TAP experience to a vast majority of flights with Lufthansa, SWISS, LOT Polish Airlines, and more"
How would you compare it to United and the other US airlines, which at least do compete with it on those direct TATL routes?
@ Julia -- Fixed, thank you! I'd say I probably slightly prefer most US airlines, with the exception of DL and UA narrow bodies, and DL 767s. While US carriers don't have a great soft product, they do have a solid hard product, plus great bedding, and that's important in business class.
Entree = starter...
Yes I will never get how an “entree” is a main course . The word already says it
I concur with this review, having taken a MIA-LIS-ORD routing on the A330neo in Feb 2020 (my last flight before the pandemic -- sigh).
Seats are definitely tight (I'm 6'3"), but food was at least on-par with what US carriers serve on trans-Atlantic routes, service was efficient and upbeat, and the pricing was about 25% lower than most business class options to Europe (a fact that keeps airfares lower to LIS in general across most...
I concur with this review, having taken a MIA-LIS-ORD routing on the A330neo in Feb 2020 (my last flight before the pandemic -- sigh).
Seats are definitely tight (I'm 6'3"), but food was at least on-par with what US carriers serve on trans-Atlantic routes, service was efficient and upbeat, and the pricing was about 25% lower than most business class options to Europe (a fact that keeps airfares lower to LIS in general across most airlines.
Only thing I'm disappointed to note is that, from the accompanying pictures, they appear to have dumped the lime green argyle-pattern socks? They're pretty fun, and sturdy enough that I still have a pair.
Thanks for this review. I'm South Florida and NYC/NJ based, and have also seen some MIA-LIS biz award availability, so I wouldn't hesitate to book this in future.
There are other adjectives to describe food besides “tasty”. All of the online bloggers use the word “tasty” to describe any food that tastes good. “Delicious, delectable, scrumptious and good are all good substitutes. It’s like monkey see monkey do when describing food as “tasty” all of the time.
The bar is very low for these travel/rewards blogs. We're "lucky" enough that this one isn't filled with rampant typos and misinfo.
Another blog was just "recently" discovering the Chase Ink Preferred only requires $8k min spend, when it's been that way for almost a year.
I flew TAP this week from Lisbon to Miami. Your comments exactly mirror my experience. The food was good, the flight attendants were very friendly, the bedding and amenities were fine, and the seat was a little difficult to get in and out of, even when fully upright.
Ha, Ben you're crushing it with all the reviews lately, thanks for that! Agreed on the MIA air conditioning, and IMHO as an outsider it feels like a cultural thing in South Florida overall - they LOVEEE their a/c, and we're not talking like 68 or 70 degrees, they blast those suckers as low as they'll go.
Yup! And this isn't just MIA, but also TPA and MCO in my experience.
agreed, our company used to have a Miami office and it was freezing in there. I would bring warm clothes for the trip. Could never understand why they had it so cold. Our offices in other cities such as Chicago, New York or Toronto were not a patch on Miami despite all being way colder climates.
TAPs business class product is an EXCELLENT value when compared to the cost of similar TATL products. Great hard product accompanied by warm signature Portugese hospitality (including ground personnel!) They also offer great opportunities to bid for upgrades.
The only negative thing about flying TAP is LIS - probably THE worst European capital airport.
I think Brussels wins the worst European capital airport prize.
BRU is a Diamond compared with LIS!
Flew TAP business from Boston to Funchal round trip for 1500 dollars in November. Absolutely steal. The lie flat seats were comfortable, food was excellent and the service was good enough! Checks all the boxes, lie flat, good food, amenity kit etc for very reasonable rates.
I consider TP a very decent Carrier for what they offer. I use them quite a lot and like you mentioned, their Business Class on Long Haul offers very decent product comparing with what you pay for. Of course, out of Europe it's not a LX or so but still...
The only thing that I struggle with when flying TP is the need of using their LIS-hub. That Airport is for decades Overcrowded and...
I consider TP a very decent Carrier for what they offer. I use them quite a lot and like you mentioned, their Business Class on Long Haul offers very decent product comparing with what you pay for. Of course, out of Europe it's not a LX or so but still...
The only thing that I struggle with when flying TP is the need of using their LIS-hub. That Airport is for decades Overcrowded and too small to handdle all those movements with only one RWY and lack of space for almost everything. It improved over the years but most times you won't even have a Jetbridge available, so if you wanna be almost sure to have an Outstanding position, then use LIS. What indirectly turns the Groundservice almost always terrible!
I had the pleasure of using TAP several times before COVID. the seat is very narrow, the crews were basic but I found the food, duvet pillows and amenity kit very good. Food and drinks were also good. If the price is right I would fly with them again at any time. To be honest: better nothing happen with your booking: customer service is virtually non-existent
Was it the 3:45 am departure from Miami?
@ Willem -- There is/was a 3:45AM departure from Miami?!
I remember that at one point not to long ago TAP had a flight departing MIA at 3:45am.
Now, TAP seasonally has 2 daily flights out of MIA. The later flight departs around midnight (I think it only operates in the summer), and it was operated by one of TAP's remaining standard A330s last summer.
Did they serve a champagne or a sparkling wine from Portugal? What was the lounge in Miami? Turkish?
@ FNT Delta Diamond -- Yep, they served a Portuguese sparkling wine, and the Turkish Lounge is the one that passengers are sent to.