Use this template to message local politicians and institutions (list below).
Copy and paste it, or use it as a base for your own message.
Let’s make sure they know we exist!
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my concern and request the necessary intervention to resolve the situation at the Portimão Aerodrome, which has been facing serious difficulties in resuming sport parachuting operations for the past 4 years.
As a skydiver, I would like to highlight my desire to jump in the Algarve, but unfortunately, I am unable to do so and am forced to jump in other locations. Unlike many destinations where there are no activities beyond skydiving, the Algarve offers the opportunity for skydivers' families and friends to enjoy various activities, making it the perfect winter getaway.
The numbers don’t lie. In 2019, over 89,000 jumps were made. If we consider the cost of a single jump ticket (€34), we're talking about at least 3 million euros. If we add accommodation, food, car rentals, the number easily reaches 7 million euros annually.
Therefore, the reactivation of this sector could bring significant benefits to the local economy, generate revenue for the State, and attract tourists and athletes to the region, especially during the off-season.
I respectfully request your attention to ensure that this matter is addressed as a priority.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
E-MAIL LIST BELOW
What's going on?
Four years ago, Portimão Aerodrome stopped being the largest skydiving operation in Europe and one of the biggest in the world.
❌ 4 years without any students
🚫 4 years without major events
😞 4 years without world-class teams training here
⬇️ 4 years of decline in activity
⚠️ 4 years of political inaction – the same excuses, no real action. Lack of interest or incompetence?
💸 At least €28 million lost in 4 years, especially during the low season when the Algarve needs it the most.
WHAT HAPPENED 4 YEARS AGO?
Portimão Aerodrome was intervened by ANAC (National Civil Aviation Authority) due to several irregularities, some related to skydiving. A new director was appointed to fix the issues.
SIMPLE SOLUTIONS WERE POSSIBLE. BUT WHAT DID THEY DO INSTEAD?
❌ Rather than solving the problems, they isolated themselves and imposed arbitrary rules, with no basis in official regulations.
THE RESULT?
➡️ They created a scapegoat to cover up poor aerodrome management.
➡️ They enforced restrictions unique to Portimão that do not exist anywhere else in Portugal or Europe.
AND WHO PAYS THE PRICE?
Local skydiving, the businesses that depend on it, and the Algarve’s economy—especially in the low season.
WHAT CAN BE DONE?
Use the land next to the aerodrome, between the golf course and the aerodrome fence.
"A piece of state-owned land, funded by taxpayers, lost in bureaucracy, unused for years, generating no income, and left abandoned."
If this land were used as the base for skydiving operations:
✔️ It would increase aerodrome security by keeping skydiving activity separate from commercial aviation operations.
✔️ It would separate aircraft and skydiver traffic, making operations more organized and safer.
✔️ It would keep the runway’s emergency escape zones clear for aircraft emergencies.
✔️ It would reduce parachute collapse risks caused by turbulence from the hangars.
✔️ It would allow a dedicated landing area for high-performance parachutes, improving safety.
✔️ It would give spectators better access to the action, increasing visibility and foot traffic.