According to estimates from the Ponta Delgada Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the airline's abandonment could result in an annual loss of up to €165 million, including both direct and indirect impacts on the tourism sector.

This scenario is particularly alarming for the region, as it translates into a projected 1.7% reduction in the Azores' Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the current year, jeopardising the archipelago's economic growth dynamics.

The direct impact on overnight stays is a major concern for local businesses. Gualter Couto, president of the Chamber of Commerce, explains that the absence of the low-cost carrier could mean 340,000 to 390,000 fewer overnight stays per year, based on an average stay of 3.3 days per tourist.

With an average expenditure per visitor set at €1036, the immediate drop in tourism revenue will range between €100 and €120 million, affecting commerce, restaurants and accommodation across the board.

Azorean business leaders are sceptical about other companies, such as SATA or TAP, being able to fill this gap. Although the Regional Government points to an increase in supply from flag carriers, past experience with the reduction of Ryanair's base suggests that compensation is rarely complete.

The private sector also accuses the regional government of "lack of professionalism" in conducting negotiations, recalling that tourism represents about 20% of the wealth generated in the Azores and is the main private employer in the region, requiring strategic management that avoids the loss of air connectivity essential for the survival of the islands' economic ecosystem.