Traveling by this type of plane has become one of the fastest ways to get to the Algarve without wasting time on highways or airports.
The flight connection, operated by Sevenair, starts in Cascais and takes about 35 minutes to Portimão, allowing for a quick journey between the Lisbon region and the south of the country.
This type of regional flight is gaining popularity, especially among those who travel frequently for business reasons. With high demand during peak seasons and greater efficiency compared to ground transportation, this option is beginning to be seen as more than just a curiosity.
Regional Connection
According to the website Flight Connections, Sevenair is currently the only regional airline offering flights between Cascais and Portimão. This Portuguese operator also connects other cities such as Bragança, Vila Real, and Viseu, functioning as an internal national mobility network. The routes are designed for locations without international airports, enabling quick travel within the country.
The goal is to facilitate regional transportation without requiring passengers to travel to larger airports, such as Lisbon or Faro. With frequent flights and simpler boarding processes, this air connection offers a practical solution for those looking to avoid traffic jams and long land travel.
Small aircraft, fast routes
The aircraft used are Fairchild Dornier Do-228 models, with a capacity of 19 seats. These aircraft are designed to operate on short runways, allowing flights to take off and land at municipal airfields without the need for extensive airport infrastructure. This type of aircraft is frequently used on regional flights due to its low operating costs and high reliability.
Choosing this type of aircraft significantly reduces boarding and disembarking times. Since the flight between Cascais and Portimão lasts approximately 35 minutes, passengers gain more than two hours compared to a car or train trip, which explains the growing interest among frequent travellers.
Frequency and Weekly Schedules
The route offers, on average, two flights per day, totalling approximately twelve weekly connections. Schedules typically vary between late morning and late afternoon, allowing passengers to choose to depart Cascais before lunch or return mid-afternoon. There is also flexibility for those needing to return on the same day.
The return flight between Portimão and Cascais operates at similar times, making it easier to travel back and forth in just a few hours. This number of connections is sufficient to meet current demand, but could be increased if membership continues to increase over the next year.
Prices and Growing Demand
Ticket prices start at 138 euros for a round trip and may vary depending on the season. During the summer and holidays, prices may increase slightly due to increased demand. However, in August and September, lower fares have emerged, making the service competitive compared to land-based alternatives.
Over the past few months, this flight has been sought after by professionals needing quick travel between the Algarve and the Lisbon region, as well as tourists who prefer to avoid traffic. The simple check-in process at municipal airports contributes to a more comfortable and faster experience.
Nothing like more carbon emissions. What is the hatred towards trains in this country? Spain, Germany and France seem to have figured it out. You can just copy them Portugal.
By Dany from Porto on 21 Aug 2025, 10:07
Congrats in promoting the stupidity of such a flight. You people should walk barefoot from Caacais and Algarve instead.
By nunof from Lisbon on 21 Aug 2025, 12:47
So sad to read this. We need fast trains please, not this nonsense.
By Liza from Alentejo on 22 Aug 2025, 11:14
Portugal only needs very limited rail infrastructure. Portugal is a bus and plane country with only very limited rail connections required. The rail connections in the Lisbon or and Porto metropolitan areas should (!) be improved. Everything else should be based on economics. If an air field exists near Cascais and locations in the Algarve then they should be used. It is fast, efficient and less expensive than I thought.
By Tom from Lisbon on 25 Aug 2025, 17:56