Portugal has announced ambitious plans to improve its transportation infrastructure, including a new airport in Alcochete, a high-speed rail link to Madrid, and a third bridge over the Tagus River. The new airport, named after Luís de Camões, will be located on public land and is expected to open in 2030. The high-speed rail link is expected to be operational by 2034 and will shorten the travel time between Lisbon and Madrid to three hours.
Detailed Breakdown of Portugal's Transportation Plan
Portugal's Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, recently revealed two major infrastructure projects: a new airport in Alcochete and a high-speed rail connection between Lisbon and Madrid. The new airport, named after Luís de Camões, is slated to open its first runway in 2030, with the second following in 2031. This development will eventually lead to the closure of the existing Humberto Delgado airport, notorious for its congestion and delays.
The high-speed rail project aims to reduce travel time between the Iberian capitals to three hours by 2034. This ambitious plan involves constructing a third bridge over the Tagus River and upgrading the railway network. The Portuguese government is actively seeking collaboration with Spain and the European Commission to ensure the timely completion and secure funding for the project.
These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to modernise Portugal's transportation infrastructure. In addition to the Lisbon-Madrid connection, the government is prioritising the high-speed Atlantic corridor, linking Porto and Lisbon with Vigo in Spain. This internal focus aims to enhance connectivity within Portugal and boost economic development.
The decision to upgrade the rail network is expected to have a significant impact on travel patterns between Portugal and Spain. Currently, the train journey between Lisbon and Madrid is lengthy and inconvenient, with multiple transfers. The high-speed rail link aims to provide a more efficient and sustainable alternative to air travel, potentially reducing congestion at airports and promoting eco-friendly transportation.
The choice of Alcochete as the location for the new airport has garnered widespread support, with only minor opposition. The government's decision to prioritise a single airport in Alcochete aligns with the recommendations of an independent technical commission. This strategic choice is anticipated to consolidate Portugal's position as an international aviation hub and stimulate economic growth in the southern bank of the Tagus River.
