The Técnico alumnus Nuno Leal has been distinguished, for the second time, by Airline Economics as one of the 40 professionals under the age of 40, who stand out in the commercial aviation industry. The alumnus had already been nominated in 2019. Nuno Leal was also appointed “Highly Commended” professional, in recognition of his professional career at TAP over the past few years.

The investment in new, more efficient and less polluting aircraft, and the improvements made on passenger travel experience, which took place over the years of TAP’s private management, were important factors leading to Nuno Leal’s distinction.

“As the former fleet director for TAP Air Portugal, Nuno Leal spearheaded the transformation of the airline’s fleet”, says the Airline Economics’ issue 62 June/July. “During 2020, Nuno led a team that successfully renegotiated nearly all of the airline’s aircraft and engine lease agreements”, it is also stated. The industry leaders also describe Nuno Leal’s performance as “nothing short of exceptional”, and “critical to allowing TAP to navigate and survive the crisis”.

After a 14-year career at TAP, the Técnico alumnus left the company in February 2021, and has embraced several challenges as Senior Advisor at World Star Aviation, and Technical Advisor at Plane View Partners. He is also a lecturer at ISEC Lisboa (Master in Air Transport Operations – Airline Fleet Planning and Management).

The prestigious publication annually selects a group of professionals with less than 40 years who stood out in the aviation industry in the previous year. According to Airline Economics, “in fact, all 40 members of the final list received 320 nominations in total, with more than 80% of those from clients. Moreover, this year for the first time, the gender balance has substantially improved with women making up 45% of the list”.