photo of Alfama Lisbon

With a population of just over half a million, plus a further 2.8 million extending to the urban areas, Lisbon is the largest city in Portugal. Located on the western Iberian Peninsula, it is the only European metropolis that faces the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can experience a variety of water activities, including surfing and sailing. Those who prefer to stay ashore can simply relax and enjoy the sunset on the sandy beaches along the coast.

The city boasts a thriving financial sector, and contributes the highest GDP and PPP per capita in Portugal. It is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, and contains a combination of historic and modern neighborhoods. Alfama is the oldest district in Lisbon. The borough is spread down the southern slope from Sao Jorge Castle to the River Tagus. For those seeking a place for shopping, entertainment and a great night out, Bairro Alto is the most vibrant and happening area in all of Lisbon. The city as a whole is home to more than 250 bars and clubs. Pombaline Baixa is an elegant historic district, and the heart of Lisbon. Belem is another major tourist area, containing iconic landmarks such as Torre de BelemJeronimo’s Monastery, the Monument to the DiscoveriesPraca do Imperio and the Centro Cultural de Belem.

Walking around the city’s cobblestone pavements is literally walking on art. Visitors can explore rich architectural history from the Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Baroque, Modern and Postmodern eras throughout the city. There are several eminent national museums to visit, including the National Museum of Ancient Artthe National Azulejo MuseumCalouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Costume and Fashion, the Berardo Collection Museum of Modern Art and the Museum of the Orient. This sun-kissed destination is sure to charm travelers all year round with its Mediterranean climate. Lisbon enjoys some of the warmest of winters in all of Europe.

Flying to Lisbon

Lisbon Airport (IATA: LIS, ICAO: LPPT), also known as Portela Airport, is the main international gateway to Portugal. It is one of the largest airports in Southern Europe, and served over 20 million passengers in 2015. The airport has two main terminals, and includes an executive area for General Aviation (GA). LPPT is fully equipped to provide ground handling services for all types of aircraft. An executive lounge for VIP and crew is also available.

Lisbon Airport serves as an Airport of Entry (AoE), with customs and immigration available 24/7. Please note pax and crew passport information must be submitted before the flight. Airport slots are mandatory for all flights into LPPT. A parking permit is also required for aircraft operating for more than three hours. Due to a shortage of aircraft parking space at this airport, long-term parking is not an option. Any aircraft parking for over three hours need to obtain an Airport Management Permit. For this reason, Cascais Airport (LPPR) is a better option for aircraft requiring long-term parking.

Noise restrictions apply from 00:00 to 06:00 local time. Night slots are required with noise level information, sideline, landing approach and takeoff. Helicopter transfers are also available at LPPT. In order to make all necessary arrangements, it is suggested that you inform your trip support provider at least 24 hours prior to arrival.

Alternate Airports

Cascais Municipal Aerodrome (IATA: CAT, ICAO: LPCS) is situated 20km west of Lisbon. Although LPCS does serve as an AoE, the airport is not open 24 hours. Standard operating hours are from 08:00 local time until sunset. It is possible to extend until 23:59, and between 07:00 to 08:00. Customs and immigration are available at LPCS only through prior arrangement.

Although PPR is mandatory, airport slot booking is not required. The airport has a VIP lounge available. Ground handling services at LPCS include towing, GPU, and interior/exterior cleaning. It is recommended to check first with the airport handler if they can accommodate your aircraft. Parking permits are not required, and long-term parking is available upon request. All mentioned arrangements can be secured, providing the request is sent at least 24 hours before the flight.

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (IATA: OPO, ICAO: LPPR), also known as Porto Airport, is the second busiest international airport in Portugal after Lisbon Airport. Porto Airport is located 11km northwest of Clerigos Tower in the city of Porto. LPPR is approximately 277km away from LPPT. Porto Airport is open 24/7 for certified operators, subject to slot approval and submission of the appropriate aircraft/helicopter noise certificates. There are no restrictions on customs and immigration, however GenDec must be submitted 24 hours prior to arrival.

PPR is not required, although airport slots are mandatory. LPPR is fully equipped for all ground handling services. A VIP terminal is available upon request for passengers only, between 05:00 and 01:00 local time. An aircraft parking permit is required, and long-term parking is available. Operators traveling to Lisbon can first drop off their passengers at LPPT and fly to LPPR for long-term parking. Helicopter transfers are also available. It is recommended to submit your requests for slots and all necessary permits at least 24 hours prior to arrival.

Landing Permits and Crew Visas

Landing permits / PPR are only required for charter, taxi or commercial flights for non-EU operators performing international flights into Lisbon. Aircraft documents required to apply for a landing permit include a valid Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), airworthiness certificate, insurance, registration and noise certificate. Landing permits can be applied for 24 hours prior to the flight. Crew visas will not be necessary for those on duty.

VAT on Fuel Uplifts

VAT is applicable on fuel in Portugal when a flight is private or domestic. If the flight is commercial/international, VAT is not applied, unless it is purchased through an international reseller. As Jetex is a VAT registered company in Portugal, VAT exemption can be availed. Take advantage by enrolling in the Jetex VAT Exemption Program today. For assistance, please contact our team at vat@jetex.com.

Plan Your Next Trip with Jetex

Jetex Flight Support is a premium brand. We offer world-class trip planning services, including in-house flight planning, permit arrangements, ground handling, fuel uplift and bespoke concierge services. Our dedicated operations teams are on standby 24/7 in Dubai, Miami and Beijing, ready to provide quick and reliable solutions for all of your travel requirements. Jetex will take care of all the technical aspects of your flight, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip.

To learn more about how you can benefit from our services, please call our team today on +971 4 212 4000 or email info@jetex.com.