Key Highlights
- Salgado Filho International Airport (POA) is the main air hub for Porto Alegre and the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
- The international airport has undergone significant recent expansion, including a major runway extension.
- Operated by Fraport Brasil, the airport features modern facilities, including a shopping mall in Terminal 1.
- It serves as a key connection point for domestic flights within Brazil and international destinations in Latin America and Europe.
- Major airlines like LATAM, Azul, and TAP Air Portugal operate from Porto Alegre.
Introduction
Welcome to your guide to Porto Alegre–Salgado Filho International Airport (POA)! As the primary gateway to southern Brazil, this bustling airport serves the vibrant city of Porto Alegre and the surrounding region. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, navigating this airport is a breeze. This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need for a smooth journey, from terminal details to transportation options. Let’s explore what makes this southern Brazilian hub tick.
Overview of Porto Alegre International Airport
Salgado Filho International Airport is a crucial piece of infrastructure for the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Since 2017, the airport has been operated by Fraport Brasil, which took over the concession from the Brazilian government’s Infraero, promising significant upgrades and improved services for travelers heading to and from Porto Alegre.
What facilities are available at Porto Alegre International Airport? The airport offers a variety of amenities to enhance your travel experience. You can enjoy free Wi-Fi, find charging stations for your devices, and explore dining options. Terminal 1 is notable for being the first airport terminal in Latin America to feature an integrated shopping mall.
Official Name, Airport Code, and Location
The airport’s official name is Aeroporto Internacional de Porto Alegre–Salgado Filho. It was named on October 12, 1951, in honor of Joaquim Pedro Salgado Filho, a respected senator and the first Minister of the Brazilian Air Force. This name has been officially maintained since 1953, recognizing his contributions to the nation’s aviation.
If you’re booking a flight, you’ll need the correct airport code. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) code for the airport is POA, which is commonly used for passenger ticketing and flight tracking. Its International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) code is SBPA, used by air traffic control and for flight planning.
Located just 9 kilometers (about 6 miles) from the city center, POA serves the entire Greater Porto Alegre region in the Rio Grande do Sul state. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible, ensuring a quick and straightforward commute whether you’re arriving in or departing from this part of Brazil.
Recent Renovations and Expansion Projects
Since Fraport Brasil took over operations, the airport has seen major improvements. An ambitious renovation and expansion plan was put into action to modernize the facilities and increase capacity, transforming the travel experience for passengers. The Brazilian government awarded the concession with the expectation of significant upgrades.
A key part of the expansion was the runway extension. The main runway was lengthened to 3,200 meters (10,499 feet), a project completed in May 2022. This crucial update allows larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 777 and Airbus A330, to operate at the airport, opening the door for direct flights to and from destinations in Europe and North America.
The passenger terminal also received a substantial upgrade. The project effectively doubled the size of Terminal 1 to 72,000 square meters. This renovation included adding more check-in counters, new baggage carousels, and a new parking garage. These changes have brought the airport’s service level up to international standards, creating a more efficient and comfortable environment for you.
Airlines and Destinations
Salgado Filho International Airport is your connection to a wide array of destinations. The airport facilitates travel to major cities across Brazil and key hubs throughout Latin America and beyond. As a focus city for Azul Brazilian Airlines, it plays a vital role in the national air travel network, offering frequent flights to popular spots like Rio de Janeiro.
Whether you’re planning a domestic trip or an international adventure, you’ll find plenty of options. A diverse mix of airlines operates from Porto Alegre, ensuring competitive choices for your travel needs. Let’s look closer at the specific carriers and the popular routes they fly.
Major Domestic and International Airlines
Porto Alegre International Airport hosts a variety of major airlines, catering to both domestic and international travelers. These carriers connect the capital of Rio Grande do Sul to the rest of Brazil and the world. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, you can choose from several reputable airlines for your journey.
The airport is serviced by a mix of carriers offering extensive route networks. Here are some of the major airlines you can find operating at POA:
| Airline | Type |
|---|---|
| Aerolíneas Argentinas | International |
| Azul Brazilian Airlines | Domestic & International |
| Copa Airlines | International |
| Gol Linhas Aéreas | Domestic & International |
| LATAM Group (Brasil, Chile, Perú) | Domestic & International |
| TAP Air Portugal | International |
These airlines provide robust schedules for both domestic flights within Brazil and international flights to other continents. This variety ensures that you have flexible and convenient options when planning your travel from Porto Alegre, making the airport a true gateway to South America and beyond.
Popular Flight Routes and Destinations
From the modern passenger terminal at Porto Alegre, you can reach numerous exciting destinations. The airport offers a great mix of short-haul domestic flights and long-haul international routes, making it easy to plan your next trip, whether it’s within Brazil or across the globe.
The flight network connects you to some of the most important cities in Latin America and Europe. Some of the most popular direct flight destinations include:
- São Paulo (Congonhas & Guarulhos)
- Rio de Janeiro
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Lima, Peru
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Panama City, Panama
These routes underscore the airport’s strategic importance as a southern hub. By offering direct connections to major business and leisure destinations like São Paulo and cities across Latin America, Porto Alegre’s airport solidifies its position as an essential link for travelers in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are airport lounges accessible to all travelers?
Airport lounges at the Salgado Filho terminal in Porto Alegre, Brazil, are available but generally not accessible to all travelers. Access is typically reserved for those flying in business or first class, holding elite airline status, or having a membership with a lounge access program. Always verify the specific entry requirements beforehand.
Can I track flights arriving and departing Porto Alegre Airport?
Yes, you can easily perform flight tracking for all arrivals and departures at the airport in Porto Alegre, Brazil. The most reliable way to get real-time updates is by visiting the airport’s official website or using your airline’s mobile app. These tools provide the latest information on flight statuses.
What are the check-in procedures at the airport?
For a smooth start to your journey at Salgado Filho International Airport, follow the standard check-in procedures. It is recommended that you arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures. You will need your boarding pass and a valid government-issued photo ID for check-in.