Universal Aviation has made its first entry into both the rapidly growing Portuguese market and the strategic Cape Verde archipelago through a partnership with Portugal-based business aviation ground handler Safeport, strengthening its logistical position for trip support on key Atlantic crossing routes.

All six of Safeport’s ground handling locations will be co-branded with Universal Aviation, they are at Lisbon Humberto Delgado International; Cascais; Oporto Francisco sa Carneiro; Beja; Faro Gago Coutinho International; and Cape Verde mílcar Cabral International airports, the latter a strategic tech stop at the crossroads of the Atlantic.

“Portugal’s thriving business aviation market, coupled with Cape Verde’s strategic importance for Atlantic crossings, presents a unique opportunity for growth,” says Universal chairman Greg Evans. “Safeport was the clear choice for this partnership due to its exceptional 30-year track record of top-tier service and deep local expertise. Its proven ability to handle high profile clients such as top executives, government officials and celebrities, aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering the highest standards of service and safety globally.”

“Forming an alliance with Universal Aviation allows us to elevate our three decades of local expertise to a global scale,” notes Paulo Mirpuri, president and CEO, Safeport. “Universal's worldwide resources, cutting-edge information sharing and renowned safety standards complement our deep understanding of the Portugal and Cape Verde markets. This collaboration enhances our service capabilities and opens doors to new international customers who recognise and trust the Universal Aviation brand. Together, we’re poised to set new benchmarks in business aviation services across our region.”

“By putting Universal boots on the ground throughout Portugal and Cape Verde, we’re ensuring better mission lifecycle management for our trip support customers,” adds Evans. “This means improved multi-city coordination and enhanced intelligence feeding our global network. Whether Portugal is the final destination or operators are using Sal Island as a tech stop, they’ll now experience the Universal Aviation brand they trust.”