The municipality of Ponte de Sor is located in the interior of Portugal, in the Alentejo region. Geographically, it is characterized by its central position within the natural territory and by occupying a vast area (approximately 840 km²), predominantly forested, with a low population density (19 inhabitants/km²). Its main economic activities have historically been linked to the primary sector, particularly forestry, cork processing, the agri-food industry, services, the social economy, and, for about thirty years until 2009, the manufacturing of components for the automotive sector.

Since then, the aeronautical sector has gained significant ground and now stands as another key pillar of the municipality’s economy. In brief, this activity began in the early 2000s when two companies producing light aircraft settled in Ponte de Sor, drawn by incentive measures implemented at the time alongside the expansion of the Industrial Zone. Their presence led the Municipal Council to begin the construction of a small aerodrome. In 2006, the Portuguese government launched a national call for proposals to establish the national base for the Civil Protection air fleet. The requirements included the construction of a larger runway, among other features. That moment marked the transformation of Ponte de Sor into one of the largest and most advanced aerodromes in Portugal. From then on—and especially since 2013, with the arrival of the country’s largest flight school—the infrastructure has continuously expanded. Today, several companies are based there, employing around 300 people, and the site’s potential is far from exhausted. For example, Tekever, a Portuguese company that manufactures the drones patrolling European maritime space, may soon also produce satellites for the European satellite constellation in Ponte de Sor.

Today, the Ponte de Sor Aeronautical and Aerospace Cluster is recognized as a strategic ecosystem of national relevance in the country’s interior, gathering over 15 entities in the sector located at the Municipal Aerodrome. The infrastructure hosts companies dedicated to pilot training, aircraft maintenance, unmanned aircraft (UAV) manufacturing, aeronautical software solutions, ground handling services, and flight operations, consolidating itself as a technological and educational hub.

With more than 575 jobs created, the cluster continues to grow, reflecting a municipal strategy focused on attracting investment, fostering technological innovation, and strengthening ties with higher education and applied research. Key players include Tekever—Europe’s leading UAV manufacturer and Portugal’s newest tech unicorn—and the recent arrival of Gestávia, a new ground handling services operator, as well as AEROMEC, AS Breathing, LD Helmet, Avionicel, Flytech, and Heliavonicis.

Mobilizing Agendas
The Aero.Next Portugal Agenda is a true catalyst for strengthening the aeronautical sector in Portugal, with a total investment of over €123 million. Of this, €73 million is specifically allocated to the Alentejo region, with a special focus on Ponte de Sor. The agenda’s main goals include:

• Production of the First Portuguese Aircraft: The LUS 222, a 19-seat regional light aircraft with a cargo capacity of 2000 kg and a range of 2000 km, will be produced at the Ponte de Sor Municipal Aerodrome.
• Development of Aeronautical Products: In addition to the LUS 222, the agenda includes the ARX, an unmanned aircraft for maritime surveillance developed by Portuguese company TEKEVER, based in Ponte de Sor.
• Advanced Air Mobility Services: Development of innovative services integrating cutting-edge technologies for air mobility.

By 2027, the Aero.Next Portugal Agenda is expected to generate:

• 72 new products, services, and patents
• A turnover of €453 million
• 20% of operations powered by renewable energy
• Over 900 jobs created, including 300 skilled positions in the Alentejo and 150 direct jobs in Ponte de Sor through the factory installation

The NEURASPACE Agenda focuses on monitoring space debris using artificial intelligence, with a total investment of €26 million. Its mission is to increase Europe’s capacity to act sustainably in space, contributing to the preservation of the space environment. Key initiatives include:

• Installation of Telescopes in Ponte de Sor: Advanced telescopes will be deployed in the municipality to efficiently monitor space debris
• Job Creation: Around 50 direct jobs are expected, boosting the local economy and promoting technological specialization in the region

The municipality of Ponte de Sor is also an active partner in the NEWSPACE Agenda, which aims to develop national capabilities and competencies in the space sector. This agenda covers several areas:

• Specialized Education: Training highly qualified professionals through space-focused education programs
• Scientific Research and Innovation: Supporting research projects and technological innovation to develop new space applications
• Entrepreneurship and Scientific Culture: Encouraging entrepreneurship in the space sector and promoting a scientific culture that supports long-term space infrastructure and services

Together, the three mobilizing agendas—Aero.Next Portugal, NEURASPACE, and NEWSPACE—position Ponte de Sor as a hub for innovation and technological development in Portugal. With significant investment, the creation of qualified jobs, and the promotion of sustainable practices, these initiatives not only strengthen the local economy but also contribute to Portugal’s leadership in the aeronautical and space sectors.

The municipality’s commitment to these agendas reflects a forward-looking vision where technology, sustainability, and quality of life go hand in hand—establishing Ponte de Sor as a true example of progress and innovation.