# Air France-KLM and Lufthansa Submit Binding Bids for TAP Portugal Stake

_Jul 31 05:18_

Tags: Air France-KLM, British Airways, IAG, ITA, Iberia, Lufthansa, Lufthansa Group, TAP Portugal, SkyTeam, Star Alliance

Air France-KLM and Lufthansa Group have submitted binding bids for a 44.5% to 49.9% stake in TAP Portugal, with the Portuguese government aiming to finalize the sale by September

## Summary

The Portuguese government's investment arm, Parpública, has received binding bids from two airline groups for a 44.5% to 49.9% stake in TAP Portugal: Air France-KLM and Lufthansa Group. IAG (parent of British Airways and Iberia) did not bid. Parpública has 30 days to analyze the proposals, with the government targeting a September close. Air France-KLM would use TAP as its sole Southern European carrier to strengthen its Transatlantic JV with Delta, while Lufthansa already operates ITA in Rome. The acquisition could trigger an alliance switch for TAP from Star Alliance to SkyTeam, impacting frequent flyers' earning and redemption options

## Why it matters

Affects 16 airline programs (Aer Lingus, Air France-KLM, Austrian...).

## Sources cited

- [LoyaltyLobby](https://loyaltylobby.com/2026/07/31/air-france-klm-lufthansa-group-have-submitted-binding-tap-bids?omhide=true) — Air France – KLM & Lufthansa Group Have Submitted Binding TAP Bids

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