Universal Expands European Handling Network to Portugal
Universal's co-branding agreement adds six locations to its network
Universal Aviation and Safeport executives celebrate the co-branding agreement signed at NBAA-BACE. (l-r) Bernardo Pinherio, representing Safeport; Adolfo Aragon, s-v-p, Universal Aviation; Catherine Evans, Universal Weather and Aviation; Claudia Evans, Universal Weather and Aviation; Greg Evans, chairman, Universal Weather and Aviation; Pedro Duarte, representing Safeport; Sarah Evans, Universal Weather and Aviation; Ralph Vasami, CEO Universal Weather and Aviation; and Charlie Mularski, President and COO, Universal Weather and Aviation.

Universal Aviation announced a strategic co-branding agreement with Portuguese ground handling chain Safeport in a signing ceremony at NBAA-BACE. The partnership will see all six Safeport locations at Lisbon (LPPT), Cascais (LPCS), Oporto (LPPR), Beja (LPBJ), Faro (LPFR), and Sal Island (LPFR)—the latter a strategic tech stop on the transatlantic route—co-branded as Universal Aviation locations.

“Portugal’s thriving business aviation market, coupled with Cape Verde’s strategic importance for Atlantic crossings, presents a unique opportunity for growth,” said Universal chairman Greg Evans. “Safeport was the clear choice for this partnership due to their exceptional 30-year track record of top-tier service and deep local expertise.”

Evans added that Safeport has a proven ability to handle high-profile clients—including top executives, government officials, and celebrities—which aligns with Universal’s 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,” explained Safeport’s president and CEO Paulo Mirpuri. “This collaboration enhances our service capabilities and opens doors to new international customers who recognize and trust the Universal Aviation brand.”