Curitiba to Lisbon: New Direct Flights Set to Transform Transatlantic Travel in 2026

The skies between Southern Brazil and Europe are about to get much closer. As of February 2026, preparations have officially accelerated for the highly anticipated launch of direct flights between Curitiba (CWB) and Lisbon (LIS).

Picture: blog.gettransfer.com

Scheduled to debut on July 2, 2026, this new route marks a historic milestone for the state of Paraná, bypassing the traditional hubs of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro to offer a seamless gateway to the European continent.

A Strategic Partnership: Curitiba Meets TAP Air Portugal

This month, a high-level delegation from TAP Air Portugal landed in Curitiba to finalize the operational details for the new route. The visit was meticulously organized by the Curitiba Convention & Visitors Bureau (CCVB), a key player in promoting the city's tourism and business infrastructure.

Crucial to the success of this mission was the support of Aena Brasil (the manager of Afonso Pena International Airport) and Motiva Aeroports, ensuring that the airport's technical capabilities align with TAP’s rigorous international standards.

"The direct connection from Lisbon will boost tourism, attract European visitors, and expand business opportunities with Europe," stated Ratinho Junior, Governor of Paraná.

Flight Details and Schedule

The new service will operate as a "triangle route," designed to maximize efficiency and connectivity across TAP’s extensive Brazilian network.

• Launch Date: July 2, 2026
• Frequency: 3 times per week (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays)
• Route: Lisbon (LIS) → Curitiba (CWB) → Rio de Janeiro (GIG) → Lisbon (LIS)
• Aircraft: Airbus A330-200
• Capacity: 269 passengers (Business and Economy configurations)

The use of the Airbus A330-200 ensures a premium long-haul experience, featuring modern in-flight entertainment and TAP’s renowned "Portugal Stopover" program, which allows travelers to spend up to ten days in Lisbon or Porto at no extra airfare cost before continuing to their final destination.

Economic and Tourism Impact: A R$ 300 Million Boost

Local authorities and aviation analysts estimate that the Lisbon-Curitiba route could inject upwards of R$ 300 million (approximately $60 million USD) into the regional economy within its first year.

1. Facilitating Multinational Growth

Curitiba is a powerhouse of South American industry, hosting global giants such as Volvo, Electrolux, and BASF. Currently, executives and engineers traveling from European headquarters often face grueling layovers in São Paulo. The direct flight slashes door-to-door travel time to under 24 hours from most Western European hubs.

2. Strengthening the MICE Industry

The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector in Curitiba is expected to see a significant uptick. With the support of the Curitiba Convention & Visitors Bureau, the city is positioning itself as a more accessible destination for international congresses.

3. Leisure Tourism and the "European Connection"

Paraná is home to the world-famous Iguazu Falls and the scenic Serra Verde Express train. For European travelers, particularly from Portugal, Spain, and Germany, Curitiba serves as the perfect "entry point" to the lush Atlantic Forest and the southern coast of Brazil.

Why 2026 is the Year for Curitiba

The timing of this launch is not accidental. The Brazilian Ministry of Tourism recently approved 64 new international routes for 2026, aiming to strengthen global connectivity ahead of major events like the COP30 summit in Belém and Brazil’s bid for the 2027 Women's World Cup.

TAP Air Portugal's expansion into Curitiba brings its total Brazilian destinations to 14, solidifying its position as the leading European carrier in South America. The airline is also increasing frequencies to other southern cities like Florianópolis and Porto Alegre, signaling a massive "pivot to the South" for transatlantic travel.

Travel Tips for International Visitors

For those planning to be on the inaugural flights in July 2026, here is what to expect:

Conclusion: A New Era for Paraná

The "direct flight to Lisbon" is more than just a convenience—it is a bridge that connects the innovation of Curitiba with the history of Europe. Through the collaborative efforts of the Curitiba Convention & Visitors Bureau and Motiva Aeroports, the capital of Paraná is finally reclaiming its spot on the international aviation map.

As we approach the July 2026 takeoff, Curitiba stands ready to welcome the world, offering a blend of urban sustainability, rich culture, and now, world-class connectivity.

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