Cabo Verde Airlines to Relaunch Direct Flights Between Praia and Recife in May 2026

After a hiatus of nearly six years, Cabo Verde Airlines is set to resume regular flights to Brazil starting May 2026, marking a significant boost for West African connectivity and tourism opportunities. The airline will operate a twice-weekly service between Praia, Cabo Verde’s capital, and Recife, one of Brazil’s key northeastern cities, using Boeing 737 aircraft.

This long-awaited return follows the successful reinstatement of essential regulatory approvals, including the critical ETOPS certification—a requirement that ensures extended operations for twin-engine aircraft on long-haul routes. The restoration of these certifications signals the airline’s readiness to safely and reliably reconnect two important cultural and economic hubs on both sides of the Atlantic.

The relaunch of the Praia–Recife route is expected to invigorate both business and leisure travel, providing new opportunities for tourism operators in sub-Saharan Africa to tap into the growing demand for transatlantic connections. For African travel professionals, this development opens avenues to promote Cabo Verde as a strategic gateway for South American markets, while also facilitating easier access to Brazilian destinations.

Moreover, the service is poised to strengthen trade and cultural exchange between Africa and Brazil, enhancing bilateral relations and fostering mutual economic growth. The use of the Boeing 737, a versatile and efficient aircraft, will allow Cabo Verde Airlines to maintain operational efficiency while offering competitive pricing and reliable schedules.

With this route revival, Cabo Verde Airlines is positioning itself as a key player in bridging continents, contributing to enhanced regional connectivity and tourism development. The airline’s commitment to expanding its network aligns well with broader industry trends emphasizing increased intercontinental travel and diversified route portfolios.

For African tourism stakeholders, this renewed link to Brazil not only presents fresh product offerings but also underscores the importance of leveraging emerging air routes to stimulate inbound and outbound tourism flows. As Cabo Verde Airlines prepares to welcome travelers back on this historic route, the prospects for stronger Africa-Brazil travel ties look more promising than ever.