The PSD presented a demand in the Legislative Assembly of Madeira, stating that the privatization of TAP must not compromise the island's air connections to the mainland and its overseas communities. Deputy Bruno Melim argued that the Portuguese state must ensure the continuity of services provided by the airline, regardless of its future management.
The party's concern focuses on the conditions under which connections to Madeira are maintained, rather than the airline's public or private status. The PSD recalled past TAP decisions that negatively affected regional passengers and highlighted the need for regional support mechanisms, such as the Estudante InsuLar program, to address high travel costs.
Specific conditions the PSD wants safeguarded include the protocol for inoperable airports, patient transport, links to the mainland and the diaspora, and the athlete's fare. The party advocates for these conditions to be protected by the state during the company's divestment, also considering the impact on regional tourism and the economy.
