Tap Portugal aircraft. Photo: Shutterstock Passengers flying with TAP Air Portugal are being warned about several issues that could affect their trips in the coming months, from longer passport control lines in Lisbon to baggage restrictions and even online scams.
One of the biggest changes is happening at Lisbon Airport, where a new European border system is being introduced. The Entry and Exit System (EES) is designed to modernize the processing of travelers entering or leaving the Schengen Area. While the goal is to improve security and automate checks, the short-term impact may be slower passport control. TAP is advising passengers to allow extra time at the airport and head to border control earlier than usual before their flights.
Phishing scam. Photo: Sadi Hockmuller / ShutterstockAt the same time, the airline says some customers have been targeted by a phishing scam. Fraudulent emails are circulating that claim passengers are entitled to compensation for delayed flights. These messages include links to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information. TAP’s advice is simple. Anyone who receives one of these emails should delete it immediately and avoid clicking on any links.
There are also baggage restrictions to be aware of, especially for travelers flying between Lisbon and several destinations in West Africa. These include Accra, Bissau, Banjul, Dakar, Praia, São Vicente, and São Tomé and Príncipe.
Airport luggage. Photo: Drazen Zigic / ShutterstockDuring busy travel periods such as Easter, summer, and the Christmas and New Year season, passengers will not be able to purchase extra checked baggage beyond what is included in their ticket. Here are the exact dates:
To Accra, Bissau, Banjul, Dakar, Sao Tome and Principe, Praia, Sao Vicente:
Easter: March 20, 2026 to April 5, 2026;
Summer: June 6, 2026 to September 6, 2026;
Christmas/New Year: from December 5, 2026 to January, 4 2027.
Easter: from April 6, 2026 to April 12, 2026;
Summer: June 6, 2026 to September 6, 2026;
Even frequent flyer status will not make a difference in most cases. The airline says the limits apply to almost all fares, with only minor exceptions. Standard checked baggage rules still apply, meaning each piece must stay within the airline’s weight and size limits. Anything over those limits, as well as special items like sports equipment or musical instruments in the hold, will not be accepted during these embargo periods.
These seasonal restrictions are mainly due to limited aircraft space on high-demand routes.
TAP acknowledged the inconvenience, saying, “We present our sincere apologies for any inconvenience that this situation may cause.”