LISBON – Portugal's vital tourism industry is bracing for potential setbacks as the construction of the new Lisbon Airport faces significant delays, with completion projected as far off as 2037. Industry leaders express deep concern that the prolonged wait could severely impact the nation's economy, which heavily relies on tourism.   

Francisco Calheiros, president of the Portuguese Tourism Confederation (CTP), voiced his alarm in a recent interview, stating, “I think it will take 20 years, and Portuguese tourism cannot survive 20 years without an airport.” The primary concern revolves around the lack of decisive action and the uncertainty surrounding the airport’s location, currently proposed as the Alcochete Shooting Range.   

Political Instability Adds to Delays

The project is further complicated by Portugal's fluctuating political landscape. With potential shifts in government leadership, the approach to the airport's development remains unclear. Calheiros highlighted the risk of policy changes, noting, “The new government, if it is from the PS, will be completely different. If it is from the PSD, we do not know if the ministers will be the same.”   

Despite assurances from Pedro Nuno Santos, secretary-general of the Socialist Party (PS) and former Minister of Infrastructure, that the Alcochete location will remain the plan if he is elected Prime Minister, the lack of continuity in governmental decisions casts a shadow over the project's progress.

Economic Impact and Operational Timelines

Aeroportos de Portugal (ANA), managed by the Vinci Group, estimates that the new airport could be operational by mid-2037, with potential optimizations allowing for a late 2036 opening. However, the current stagnation in negotiations with the government threatens to push these timelines further back.   

Calheiros warned that the halt in negotiations between the government and the airport’s concessionaire is exacerbating the situation, increasing uncertainty and potentially leading to more delays. The lack of progress is creating a “perfect storm” of challenges for the tourism sector, which requires the infrastructure the new airport would provide.   

The ongoing delays and political uncertainties are raising serious concerns about the long-term health of Portugal's tourism industry. Industry leaders are urging the government to take decisive action to ensure the timely completion of the new airport, which is crucial for the country’s economic future. Citizens and businesses can stay updated on the project’s progress by following announcements from government and aviation authorities.

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