Lufthansa acquires 44.9% stake in TAP Air Portugal amid pilot union criticism

Lufthansa became the preferred investor for TAP Air Portugal’s 44.9% stake after outbidding Air France‑KLM, according to the Portuguese government’s decision on 14 October 2026.

The pilot union Vereinigung Cockpit criticised Lufthansa for applying different financial criteria, saying management demands employee sacrifices in collective bargaining while paying a high price for the acquisition, and called for an explanation from Lufthansa’s management; the union also said it will strengthen cooperation with other European pilot unions, including SPAC.