Pedro Machado, president of the Regional Tourism Authority of Central Portugal and the Regional Tourism Promotion Agency of Central Portugal, argued yesterday in Fátima that “it is time to open the Monte Real Air Base to civil aviation.”
The statements were made at a press conference during the VII International Workshops on Religious Tourism, which are taking place until Saturday in Fátima and Guarda, and focused on the new route between the French sanctuary of Lourdes and Lisbon.
“Ryanair presented today here in Fátima the new air route between Lourdes and Lisbon. It is a clear sign that the time has come to move forward with an airport structure in Central Portugal to serve the Sanctuary of Fátima. If Lourdes is viable, an airport serving Fátima will also be viable,” Pedro Machado stressed.
"Fátima received 7 million visitors in 2018, according to figures released at these workshops. This figure alone is enough to sustain the operation of an airport. A study presented by the Intermunicipal Community of the Leiria Region last year shows that between 600,000 and 700,000 passengers per year are needed for the structure to be viable. With the pilgrims from Fátima, Monte Real meets all the objective conditions to make this a reality," recalled the leader, suggesting that the airport could be called Monte Real-Fátima.
"The opening of Monte Real to civil aviation is a window of opportunity for the region and for the country, which will be possible with an investment of €30 million, infinitely less than other investments. In addition, it is another way to relieve pressure on Lisbon airport, which, due to lack of capacity, is rejecting around 2 million passengers annually," added Pedro Machado, who also highlighted the fact that commercial flights in Monte Real have the effect of attracting investment to the region: “It would be a significant asset for the hotel and restaurant industry, as well as for the mold and glass industry in this region.”
“Opening Monte Real to commercial aviation is justified and feasible. If the political powers that be want it,” concluded Pedro Machado.
Source: figueiranahora