TAP Air Portugal is shaking up its long-haul proposition with the introduction of Economy Prime, a brand-new intermediate cabin aimed squarely at business travellers who want more comfort than standard economy without stretching to a business-class fare.
The Portuguese flag carrier confirmed this week that the new cabin will take to the skies from 1 June 2026, with seats already bookable across all TAP channels and through travel agents. Economy Prime will be rolled out on both the Airbus A330 and the long-range A321LR, the workhorses of TAP’s intercontinental network.
Positioned directly behind business class, the cabin comprises just 12 seats laid out in a four-abreast configuration. Crucially, the side seat is guaranteed to remain empty on every flight, creating a more private and noticeably quieter environment, a feature likely to appeal to corporate flyers who need to work or rest in transit.
The premium treatment begins well before boarding. Economy Prime passengers will have access to dedicated premium check-in desks, priority baggage handling, fast-track security and priority boarding, streamlining the airport experience from kerb to gate.
Onboard, travellers can expect a main meal with a choice of two hot dishes, which can be pre-selected up to 24 hours before departure, alongside an amenity kit and an upgraded pillow. TAP says each touchpoint has been designed to deliver a heightened sense of care throughout the journey.
For frequent flyers, the new fare class brings added flexibility, including enhanced bonus miles, easier rebooking and improved refund conditions, a package the airline believes will resonate with corporate bookers weighing value against convenience.
The move sees TAP join a widening field of carriers redefining the middle ground of long-haul travel, as airlines respond to shifting passenger expectations and the blurring boundaries between leisure and business trips. For TAP, Economy Prime represents a sharpening of its competitive edge on the transatlantic routes where it competes head-to-head with major European and North American rivals.