Portugal airports break passenger records handling 68.6 million in 2024: Know more

Published on January 30, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

Portugal’s airports saw a record-breaking year in 2024, handling 68.6 million passengers across its six busiest airports—Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Funchal, Ponta Delgada, and Horta.

Managed by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal, a VINCI Airports concession, the country’s aviation sector continues to thrive post-pandemic, with passenger numbers doubling since 2010.

Lisbon Airport surpassed 35 million passengers for the first time, while Porto Airport handled 15.9 million, reflecting a 22% growth since 2019.

Regional airports also recorded strong performances, with Ponta Delgada growing 35% vs. 2019 and Funchal rising 50%.

Faro, traditionally a summer destination, saw its best winter season ever, highlighting Algarve’s year-round appeal.

Portugal is now the 9th largest air market in Europe, bolstered by a 12% rise in international tourism and a 77% increase in foreign residents.

Infrastructure projects worth millions are underway, including a €233 million expansion for Lisbon Airport, runway upgrades in Porto, and terminal refurbishments at Ponta Delgada and Horta.

Route expansion continues to accelerate, with 827 routes in 2024—an increase of 105 since 2019. North American air traffic has surged, with seats 61% above 2019 levels.

United Airlines will become the first North American airline to serve five Portuguese airports, adding new routes to Funchal and Faro in 2025.

image: Porto Airport