Portugal asks Lufthansa and Air France-KLM to improve TAP bids
Portugal has extended the privatization process for TAP Air Portugal after determining that offers from Lufthansa and Air France-KLM are too close to choose a winner.
Portugal is holding off on choosing between Lufthansa and Air France-KLM in the sale of TAP Air Portugal. A preferred bidder was due to be picked in September, but the two proposals scored so closely in the overall assessment that both groups are being asked to improve their offers.
Presidency minister António Leitão Amaro said the offers differ but remain very near each other in total evaluation, according to news agency Lusa. The sales process now runs to 31 December 2026, with the government negotiating individually with both groups for three weeks.
They must then submit final, improved binding offers. Only after that will Portugal choose one bidder and enter final negotiations. The government said the extra round serves the national interest because the offers are so close.
Sources
- aerotelegraph.comLufthansa und Air France-KLM müssen bei Tap nachlegen