“Clearly, it can be seen that the operation is going very well […]. United [Airlines] itself has already announced that this route will continue in 2026,” said André Gomes, highlighting that the American tourist is not the traditional one who only seeks sun and beach, bringing added value to the region.
“They also have a considerable ability to spend in the region and seek, above all, what are authentic, more immersive experiences that put them in contact with traditions and culture,” the official noted.
André Gomes explained that Americans do not come just looking for the Algarve region, as they are “long-haul tourists” who end up exploring the entire country, with many seeking a second home or even considering moving to the Algarve.
“This flight has allowed us, indeed, if previously they either came through Lisbon or Porto and then to the Algarve, now it allows many of them to even start their visit to the country from the Algarve and then travel upwards to Porto, getting to know the entire country,” he added.
According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE) on tourist stays in Portugal in August 2025, among the top 10 key source markets in August, significant growth was noted in the North American market (up 9.8%) and Canadian market (up 8.5%).
André Gomes also highlighted that in August, compared to the same period last year, the Algarve was the region that contributed the most to the overall revenues of the country – 36.3% of total revenues, according to the INE.
On the other hand, he noted that the 3.4% increase in the number of national tourists in August compared to the same period last year contradicts the “narratives of the Portuguese distancing themselves from the Algarve,” and that the Algarve “is too expensive” for the Portuguese.
“This clearly demonstrates the consolidation of the Algarve as the preferred holiday destination for thousands of Portuguese and so many international tourists, which once again happened this year,” he concluded.
Seasonal flights to Faro will resume on May 15, 2026, by the American carrier that began the direct connection between Newark and Gago Coutinho Airport in Faro on May 17 of the previous year.
