Good news for Algarve Tourism!
United Airlines has announced that starting May 2024, it will open a direct route between Faro and New York (Newark Airport). This will be the first and only direct connection between the U.S. and Faro, with four weekly flights planned on a Boeing 757-200, accommodating 176 passengers.
"The new flight will make it easier for American tourists to visit the Algarve region, which offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, as well as several impressive historical sites," reads a statement from the American airline.
This marks a significant step for the region's tourism, which has experienced a strong increase in American tourists. In the current year, from January to August alone, there have been over 122,220 visitors, representing a growth of 29.3% compared to 2022 and 40% compared to 2019. The rise in overnight stays is attributed to a strong focus on promotional campaigns in the U.S., bringing fame to the southern region of the country.
André Gomes, President of the Algarve Tourism Region (RTA), who assumed the position in June of this year, has always emphasized that opening the Algarve to new markets and attracting new direct air connections to Faro Airport was one of the main objectives. Therefore, this news is a "very relevant milestone that opens a new page of opportunities for Algarve tourism."
It is known that the inaugural direct flight is scheduled for May 24, but the ticket prices are not yet known.
Sources: PRNewswire, TSF, Sic Noticias, Portugal Resident
November 3, 2023