The new airport serving the Lisbon area, named Aeroporto Luís de Camões, is set to be constructed at the Campo de Tiro in Alcochete, with completion expected by 2034. This decision, confirmed by the Portuguese government after a Council of Ministers meeting, aligns with recommendations from the Independent Technical Commission (CTI) and aims to address the current congestion at Humberto Delgado Airport.
Why Alcochete?
The choice of Alcochete for the new Luís de Camões Airport is based on several strategic factors identified by the CTI:
- Proximity to Lisbon and Accessibility: Alcochete is relatively close to Lisbon, with easy access to main road and rail networks, ensuring efficient connectivity to the capital and other regions.
- Public Land and Reduced Expropriations: The Campo de Tiro site is public land, minimizing the need for expropriations and thus reducing costs and logistical challenges.
- Positive Environmental Impact: While a new environmental impact assessment is required, previous analyses have given Alcochete a favorable environmental rating.
- Future Expansion Capacity: The available land allows for further expansion beyond the initially planned two runways, a valuable asset for accommodating projected passenger growth until 2050.
These factors solidify Alcochete as the most viable choice for expanding Lisbon’s air capacity.
Transition Solution with Humberto Delgado Airport
Due to limitations in expanding Humberto Delgado Airport, the government has proposed a transitional solution. During construction in Alcochete, Humberto Delgado will remain operational to meet growing demand. The goal is to increase its capacity to 45 movements per hour, allowing for an annual passenger flow of 40 to 45 million, with additional support for Cascais region traffic.
Timelines and Costs for Completion of Luís de Camões Airport
While the CTI suggested that both runways in Alcochete could be completed by 2031, the government considers this timeframe optimistic. Given the project’s complexity, including environmental studies and licensing, full completion is realistically estimated for 2034.
Synergy with the High-Speed Rail Link
A key component for the Luís de Camões Airport’s success is the construction of the Third Tagus Crossing (TTT), a rail link that will connect Alcochete to central Lisbon. This connection will reduce travel time between the airport and Lisbon to around ten minutes, decentralizing urban traffic and allowing for quick access to the capital.
International Connectivity and Sustainability
With future high-speed infrastructure and integration into the trans-European transport network, Luís de Camões Airport will strengthen Lisbon’s position as a strategic global connectivity hub. The new airport also offers a more sustainable alternative, reducing the need for regional flights between Lisbon and Madrid while promoting efficient integration with the rest of Europe.
Real Estate Potential in the Region
The construction of Luís de Camões Airport, along with improved transport links such as the high-speed rail and the Third Tagus Crossing, will transform the Lisbon region into a connectivity and development hub, bringing substantial real estate appreciation potential. This scenario not only bolsters the local economy but also attracts investment in areas like Alcochete and other strategic locations along the new transport routes.
CAP International, with its expertise in Portugal’s premium real estate market, is prepared to guide investors seeking to leverage these value opportunities. Specialized in identifying high-potential properties and with deep knowledge of regional development, CAP offers comprehensive advisory services for safe and advantageous real estate investments in Lisbon and surrounding areas.