Ponta Delgada, Portugal, March 30, 2026 (Lusa) - The Azores government said on Monday that regional airline SATA and flag carrier TAP were well-positioned to compensate for Ryanair’s departure from the archipelago, insisting there must be no "setbacks" regarding the mobility subsidy (SSM) for residents.
Artur Lima, deputy leader of the Azores' government, said on Monday that with the IATA (International Air Transport Association) summer season approaching, the regional carriers SATA and TAP have the capacity to resolve the vacuum left by Ryanair’s departure, which operated its final flight to the Azores on Sunday, ending a presence in the region that began in 2015.
Speaking to reporters in Ponta Delgada, he acknowledged concerns regarding transport for residents between the islands and mainland Portugal, saying that tourism remained resilient, as other airlines, not present last year, were now flying to the region from various destinations.
SATA and TAP could cover the loss of Ryanair by increasing flight frequencies or deploying larger aircraft to boost seat capacity, he said, adding that the regional government was currently analysing the situation in detail to coordinate the necessary reinforcements with both carriers.
Lima also dismissed figures provided by local business associations, which claimed Ryanair transported 100,000 passengers annually to the islands, describing the estimate as a “mere speculation”.
The airline's exit has sparked concern among local businesses who fear a decline in visitor numbers in a region where tourism is a vital economic pillar.
Additionally, Lima warned that there must be no “setbacks” regarding travel subsidies for residents, as the suspension of the requirement for a clear social security record to access the support ends on Tuesday.
The regional authorities and political parties had been clear on the matter, he said, adding that he expected the issue to be resolved permanently.
The support should not be viewed merely as a subsidy, but as a fundamental right to mobility and territorial continuity for the Azores' people, he added. The mainland government had previously extended the suspension of debt-check requirements for travel subsidy beneficiaries until 31 March 2026 to avoid payment disruptions.
The Ministry of Infrastructure recently indicated that an evaluation process is ongoing in coordination with the regional governments to ensure all payments via the electronic platform remain unaffected.
RPYP/MYAL // AYLS
Lusa
