The Tribunal de Contas (TdC) has uncovered illegalities in 29 contracts of TAP, totaling approximately €472 million, which were contracted and paid without the mandatory prior inspection.

These contracts, executed without the required approval from the Tribunal, have led to TAP managers being held responsible for the infractions.

The contracts in question encompass various services, including fuel supply, insurance, catering, maintenance, and aircraft leasing, with many exceeding €950,000.

The Public Prosecutor's Office is now reviewing the case, which could result in a financial liability trial against TAP for failing to comply with prior scrutiny requirements.

The Public Ministry supports the TdC's findings and intends to conduct a more thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding these irregularities.

The TdC's findings indicate that these illegalities could lead to financial accountability for the responsible individuals, including both current and former TAP executives.

Among those implicated are ex-president Christine Ourmières-Widener and current president Luís Rodrigues, with irregularities attributed to management during 2023 and 2024.

In defense, TAP has claimed that the contracts were executed under urgent circumstances and argued that they did not require prior scrutiny.

However, the Tribunal found TAP's justifications legally invalid, noting that the infractions occurred continuously.

As a result, TAP has been charged €9,049.73 in fees related to the case, and the Tribunal has recommended strict adherence to legal norms moving forward.

TAP has requested the dismissal of the case or a reduction of potential penalties, asserting that they acted under a 'state of necessity' and denying any conflict of interest.

Despite TAP's arguments, the Tribunal emphasizes that many contracts were executed and paid in full before being submitted for oversight, violating public spending laws.