During a luncheon debate organized by the International Club of Portugal, Pedro Machado emphasized that in the private aviation sector, the airport could gain significance, citing international celebrities such as actress Nicole Kidman, who plans to move to Melides, thereby creating new flows and opportunities in the region.
When questioned about the potential increased value of the infrastructure in Alentejo, he noted: “I do not dare say that Beja Airport could be part of this equation to represent a national or international asset from the commercial aviation standpoint, but I believe it may play a role primarily in the defense industry.”
On the sidelines of the event, he explained that “the defense industry is not necessarily military equipment,” citing examples such as the production of drones, defense equipment, and individual personal protection.
Pedro Machado further remarked that “Portugal is making a significant investment in the defense industry,” highlighting that “Beja is today recognized through the workshops it has installed,” particularly in the aircraft maintenance area.
In this context, he believes Portugal should “seize this opportunity, as it has that infrastructure, to capitalize on it particularly in the defense industry.”
In response to whether there are already contacts to develop this sector in Beja, he replied that it is not a matter for the secretary of state he leads.
