Exploring free island getaways through azores airlines' stopover program

According to data from ch-aviation, Azores Airlines has a fleet of ten planes; three aircraft are wet-leased including one A320-200, one A330-200, and one Boeing 767-300ER. The airline also operates three Airbus A320-200s, two A320neos, two A321neos and three A321LRs.

Azores Airlines offers its stopover program on flights between North America and Europe. The length of the stopover can be between one to seven nights. Passengers have options between two islands—São Miguel or Terceira—and can choose to stop either on their outbound or return journey.

Booking involves a simple three-step process:

1. If you select a trip between North America and Europe (or vice versa) when searching for your flight on our website, an option for Stopover will be automatically suggested if all flights are operated by Azores Airlines.

2. Choose São Miguel or Terceira for your Stopover.

3. Decide whether you want your Stopover to include flights only or if you wish to add experiences through our partner Azores Getaways website.

Karen Evans from Discover the World representing SATA Azores Airlines highlighted several reasons for planning a stopover in the Azores: "The scenery is spectacular! The nine volcanic islands offer stunning landscapes... Diverse activities such as hiking... Temperate climate... Safe... Affordable."

Azores Airlines formed a partnership with TAP Air Portugal in 2008 allowing passengers traveling on TAP to earn miles in SATA Imagine—the frequent flier program of SATA Group—and use them for travel bookings on TAP.

TAP Air Portugal also offers a well-regarded stopover program launched in 2016 allowing stops in Lisbon and Porto. According to TAP Air Portugal data from 2023 over 200,000 passengers experienced Portugal through this program with significant participation from Brazil (nearly half) and substantial numbers from the United States (20%).

TAP's booking process includes checking route eligibility for Stopovers via their booking menu followed by selecting Lisbon or Porto as Stopover locations before finalizing flight details including duration (one-to-ten days). Discounts up to 25% are available on domestic flights highlighting destinations like Madeira alongside partnerships with over 500 companies offering discounts at hotels museums public transport restaurants among others.