Lisbon (LIS) to Tel Aviv (TLV); Tel Aviv (TLV) to Lisbon (LIS)

The cheerful 1960s-flavored TAP Air Portugal lounge in Lisbon could stand some re-organization, but the food and beverage selection is plentiful and regularly freshened up. The sitting room side of the lounge is comfortable and quiet, with plenty of electrical outlets and strong WiFi. There is no lounge access at TLV, but that may change in the future.

Like other carriers to Israel, pre-boarding security is stringent. While the procedure departing Tel Aviv is lengthy regardless of carrier, security detail on the Lisbon side is friendly and relaxed. Allow for extra time at the boarding gate.

Business passengers boarding the Airbus A330-900neo planes are greeted with generous above-seat and in-seat storage space and a staggered 1-2-1 layout of lie-flat Recaro 6710 business-class seats with warm, modern touches like beige padding and wood and silver accents. The center aisle has a mix of connected “honeymoon seats,” ideal for couples and busy co-workers and separated aisle seat consoles for those preferring privacy. Those sitting in the connected seats can get guidance from flight attendants on using the seat’s console to add more privacy during the flight.

The amenity kits add an extra touch of luxury and fun to the business-class experience. The bags feature whimsical illustrations reflecting the joie-de-vivre of Porto, Madeira and other cities. The amenity bags are filled with goodies from homegrown skincare brand Castelbel. They also include argyle socks in a fabric kind to feet, but thick enough to withstand surprises that may come up on the lavatory floors.

The padding in the seats is not the cushiest, though the recline and strategic use of the provided blankets and pillows make for a comfortable five-hour trip. Beyond that, the flight was smooth and the cabin silent after meal service, thanks in part to a Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engine. It not only delivers fuel efficiency, but also is certificated with EASA chapter 14 noise reduction standards. Attentive but non-intrusive service in business class on both flights underscores TAP’s commitment to providing a fresh alternative to other Israel-serving airlines.

Business-class meal service is presented in two stages to evoke a Lisbon café experience with dishes inspired by the modern spins on traditional recipes served in its upscale restaurants. Natas egg tarts (Portugal’s “official” dessert), silky artisanal sheep cheese and the starter soup are the highlights. It is important to note there were a few kinks with the availability of kosher meals on the debut flight to Tel Aviv, though by now this should be worked out.

Overall, the business-class flight product serving Israel was solid right out of the gate. Anybody who regularly flies to Israel and seeks a more comfortable and quieter in-flight experience and doesn’t mind a Lisbon stop or will consider taking advantage of TAP’s popular stopover promotion will want to give it a spin. Furthermore, the recent launch of the Tel Aviv and Dublin (DUB) gateways should provide further incentive for business travelers to adopt TAP as one of their carriers of choice to Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

This summer’s addition of Chicago (ORD), San Francisco (SFO) and Washington, D.C.  (IAD) routes, as well as a new Newark (EWR)–Porto (OPO) route, promise to broaden the airline’s appeal beyond its competitive fares. Although San Francisco was selected as the carrier’s first West Coast gateway over Los Angeles, TAP CEO Antonoaldo Neves said at a press conference following the maiden LIS–TLV flight that the addition of more gateways will be researched and gradually rolled out to ensure there will be sufficient customer traffic to support them.