Consider the year 1944. World War II is raging. Right here stands the Aeródromo de Trânsito n.º 1. It plays a vital role in defending Lisbon.
The Aeródromo de Trânsito n.º 1 is more than just an airport. It is a military airfield. It provides essential logistical support. It supports the Portuguese Air Force.
In 1944, the Esquadrilha Independente de Caça was established. This squadron defended Lisbon’s airspace. They cooperated with ground forces. They were equipped with HURRICANE MKIIC aircraft. The Aeródromo de Trânsito n.º 1 was at the heart of this defense.
Also stationed here was the Esquadrilha de Treino e Transporte. This squadron trained pilots. It supported connections with the Azores. They used C-54 Skymaster aircraft from Base Aérea n.º 4. A naval aviation squadron operated BLENHEIM and BEAUFIGHTER aircraft here too.
In 1952, the Portuguese Air Force was created. Two C-54 aircraft were transferred here. They formed the 1st Transport Squadron. This was the beginning of the Military Air Transports known as TAM. By 1955, the unit became Aeródromo Base n.º 1 known as AB1. The Aeródromo de Trânsito n.º 1 evolved.
In 1961, the Air Force acquired ten DC-6 aircraft. These connected Lisbon with overseas territories. Later, in 1972, the TAM fleet expanded. Two BOEING 707s were added. All cargo and passenger movement occurred at AB1, now the Aeródromo de Trânsito n.º 1.
After the independence of overseas territories, AB1’s size was reduced. The DC-6 planes were retired. They were replaced by C-130s based at Base Aérea n.º 6. The BOEING 707s were transferred to TAP. AB1 was deactivated in 1978.
However, the need for support for transiting aircraft remained. This included both national and foreign planes. The existing facilities could centralize vehicle maintenance. This led to the creation of a new unit. On October 10, 1978, the Aeródromo de Trânsito n.º 1 was created. It replaced the deactivated Aeródromo Base n.º 1.
Today, the Aeródromo de Trânsito n.º 1 continues its mission. It ensures the readiness of aeronautical infrastructure. It provides logistical and administrative support. It maintains military security and immediate defense. It supports air activity. This includes refueling and support for crews and passengers.
The Aeródromo de Trânsito n.º 1 stands as a testament to Portugal’s aviation history. Its story spans from wartime defense to modern logistical support. It is a vital hub. It supports Portugal’s air operations. The phone number is +351 21 850 5500.