Almeirim

Almeirim Airport is a compact air gateway serving as a vital link for residents and guests of the Brazilian state of Pará. Located in the immediate vicinity of the city, it is surrounded by the majestic landscapes of the Amazon, offering travellers breathtaking views of the endless forests and the river during take-off and landing. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a key role in ensuring transport accessibility for this remote region, accepting light and regional aviation flights.

Features and Advantages:

The main advantage of the airport is its convenient location: it is situated just a couple of kilometres from the centre of Almeirim, allowing you to reach the city in a matter of minutes. The terminal features simple infrastructure, sparing passengers from long waits and queues typical of major hubs. Flights here are often operated by small aircraft, turning a regular flight into a genuine excursion over the picturesque landscapes of the Amazon.

• Official Airport Website: http://almeirim.pa.gov.br/ (website of the municipal administration, which manages the airport).
• Information Desk Phone: The terminal does not have a dedicated passenger line. To check flight status, it is recommended to call Azul Airlines at 4003-1118 (for calls within Brazil).
• Airport Address: Rodovia Almeirim/Tanaicá, s/n, Aeroporto, Almeirim - PA, 68230-000, Brasil.
• Email: gabinete@almeirim.pa.gov.br (city administration email, for administrative enquiries only).
• Airport Social Media: Official profiles are absent.
• Lost Luggage Information: Issues regarding lost luggage are resolved directly with representatives of Azul Conecta at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Customer service is provided by the air carrier. Information is available on the website voeazul.com.br.

Getting to Almeirim Airport is very simple due to its exceptional proximity to the residential area. The air gateway is located just 2 kilometres from the central part of the city. The journey takes literally 5–10 minutes, allowing travellers not to leave with a large time margin, as is required in metropolises.

Taxi and Transfer

The most convenient and common way to reach the terminal is by taxi. In Almeirim, as in many small towns in the Brazilian Amazon, mototaxis (motorcycle taxis) are very popular. This is a fast and budget-friendly option for passengers travelling light (with a backpack or small bag). For those with bulky luggage or who prefer the comfort of an air-conditioned cabin, it is recommended to order a regular car taxi through local dispatch services or arrange a ride with drivers at stands in the centre.

• Cost: A trip on a mototaxi will be very cheap; a car taxi will cost slightly more, but prices remain affordable compared to major cities.
• Recommendation: Taxi-hailing apps (like Uber) may not work or have few active cars in this region, so it is more reliable to carry cash (Brazilian Reals) and agree on the price before boarding.

Public Transport

There is no metro or railway service in the city. The bus network is poorly developed and oriented mainly towards movement within residential quarters. Specialized express buses to the airport are not provided. Given the short distance, using a bus with luggage may be impractical, as the stop may be located at some distance from the terminal entrance.

Car Rental and Parking

There are no international car rental counters within the airport building itself. If you plan to travel by rental car, this issue must be resolved in advance by contacting local rental agencies in the city. A small area for parking is organised in front of the terminal. As a rule, in such regional airports, parking is either free or has a symbolic cost, and finding a free space is not difficult.

Nearby Airports

If your itinerary involves a transfer or you are considering alternative arrival points in this vast region, pay attention to neighbouring air gateways. Please note that distances in the Amazon are immense, and "nearby" airports may be located hundreds of kilometres away.

The infrastructure of Almeirim Airport (GGF) is distinguished by extreme conciseness and functionality, which fully corresponds to the status of a regional air gateway serving light aviation. There is no complex navigation system, multi-level transitions, or confusing corridors typical of large international hubs.

Terminal Structure

The airport complex consists of one compact passenger terminal. This single-story building combines all necessary services for serving both departing and arriving passengers. The internal space is organised on an "open space" principle or divided into small functional zones located within walking distance of each other.

Main zones of the terminal:

• Check-in Zone: Located almost immediately at the entrance to the building. Here you will find airline counters (usually one or two), where flight check-in and baggage acceptance take place.
• Waiting Area: A small hall with seating where passengers await the boarding call.
• Arrival Zone: A designated space for meeting passengers.

Service Features and Navigation

Navigation at Almeirim Airport is intuitive. It is impossible to get lost here: the entire path from the entrance door to the boarding gate is visible almost immediately. Maps or signs are practically not required, as the passenger movement route is linear and simple.

Departure and Arrival Procedures:

• Check-in and Security: Due to the small capacity of aircraft flying to Almeirim (often Cessna Caravan type planes with 9–14 seats), queues for check-in are absent or move very quickly. The entire process of document processing and pre-flight screening usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes.
• Boarding: There are no jet bridges at the airport. Boarding is carried out through the terminal doors, after which passengers walk across the apron to the aircraft. This provides an opportunity to view the aircraft up close.
• Baggage Claim: There are no automatic baggage belts in the arrival zone. The delivery of suitcases and bags is generally performed manually by airport staff: luggage is unloaded from the plane and brought to the delivery area or simply placed on a special counter.

Recommendations for Passengers

Although procedures are fast, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1 hour before departure. This will allow you to calmly check in luggage and settle possible formalities without haste. Please note that the infrastructure of the "secure area" (airside) is minimal: there may be no cafes or shops, so it is better to stock up on water and necessary items in advance, while still in the city.

The history of Almeirim Airport is inextricably linked with the development of the Brazilian Amazon and the necessity of overcoming the vast distances of this region. Unlike capital hubs built as gateways for international tourism, this air harbour was created primarily as a vital artery for the local population.

Foundation and Early Years

Air communication in this part of the state of Pará began to develop in the second half of the 20th century, when the Brazilian government set a course for the integration of remote Amazonian regions. Before the advent of aviation, the only way for Almeirim to connect with the outside world was river transport. A journey to the state capital, the city of Belém, by river took several days. The construction of the runway became a real breakthrough, reducing travel time from days to hours.

Stages of Development

Initially, the airport was a simple dirt strip, accepting only the lightest aircraft and "air taxis". Over time, the infrastructure was modernised to ensure regular passenger and cargo transportation. An important stage was the paving of the runway, which allowed aircraft to be accepted regardless of the rainy season, which in the Amazon can render dirt roads and strips unusable.

Modernity and Role in the Region

In recent decades, the history of the airport has been closely linked to the development of regional aviation in Brazil. A key moment was the start of cooperation with major carriers through their regional subsidiaries (for example, Azul Conecta). This allowed Almeirim to be included in the national route network, ensuring connections with flights throughout the country.

Interesting Facts and Features:

• Lifeline: Historically, the airport plays a critical role in emergency situations. For residents of Almeirim, this is the main method for rapid medical evacuation to major hospital centres in case of serious illness.
• Fleet Specifics: For most of its history, the airport has served the legendary Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft. These reliable machines have become a true symbol of Amazon aviation thanks to their durability and ability to land on short runways.
• Visual Landmarks: Pilots who have been flying here for decades note that the history of flights to Almeirim is a history of visual navigation. Upon approach, a unique view of the Amazon River opens up, which has remained practically unchanged for the last half-century.
• Status: Despite its modest size, the airport has strategic importance for the municipality, ensuring the delivery of mail, medicines, and urgent cargo that cannot be transported promptly by water.

Given the status of Almeirim Airport (GGF) as a small regional hub serving predominantly light aviation, the range of services here is minimal. Passengers should be prepared for a basic level of comfort and the absence of entertainment and services familiar to international hubs. The main convenience of this air gateway is its compactness and the speed of completing all procedures.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

There are no full-fledged restaurants or chain cafes in the terminal. Dining infrastructure is usually limited to:

• A snack bar or kiosk: Here you can purchase bottled water, soft drinks, coffee, and light snacks (crisps, biscuits, local pastries). The operating hours of such points are often tied to the flight schedule.
• Shops: There are no Duty-Free zones or souvenir boutiques in the airport. It is recommended to buy all necessary goods, products, and souvenirs in city shops in advance.
• Prayer Rooms: Please note that there are no dedicated prayer rooms or multi-faith prayer areas within the terminal.

Waiting Halls and VIP Services

The airport terminal features one general waiting hall. The zoning of the space is nominal, and areas of increased comfort (business lounges or VIP lounges) are not provided. The hall is equipped with standard seating. Given the short waiting time for flights, the absence of premium zones rarely causes inconvenience to passengers.

Communication and Electronics

• Wi-Fi: The availability of free public Wi-Fi is not guaranteed. Connection quality may be unstable. It is recommended to rely on mobile internet (the signal from mobile operators in the airport area is usually strong).
• Charging Stations: There are no specialised stands for charging gadgets. There may be a limited number of standard household power sockets in the waiting hall, so it is better to charge phones and power banks in advance.

Financial Services

There are no ATMs or currency exchange points in the terminal building. Since the airport is located just 2 km from the city, all financial operations should be carried out at bank branches in the centre of Almeirim before leaving for the airport. Cards may be accepted for payment at kiosks (if they are working), but having small amounts of cash (Brazilian Reals) is strongly recommended.

Medical Services

There is no medical centre as such. The terminal has first aid kits with the staff. In case of serious illness, an ambulance is called from the city hospital, which arrives within 5–10 minutes thanks to the proximity of the city.

Services for Passengers with Children

There are no specialised mother and child rooms or play areas in the airport. Changing tables may be absent in the restrooms. Those travelling with infants should take everything necessary for child care in their hand luggage.

Services for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

Despite the simple infrastructure, the airport is accessible for citizens with limited mobility:

• Barrier-Free Environment: The single-story layout of the building eliminates the need for lifts or escalators, which is convenient for passengers in wheelchairs.
• Boarding the Aircraft: Jet bridges and ambulifts are absent. Boarding is carried out from the apron. Airport and airline staff provide physical assistance when ascending the stairs into the aircraft. The need for assistance should be notified to the airline when purchasing the ticket.

Hotels and Accommodation

There are no hotels on the airport territory or within walking distance. However, due to the proximity to the residential area, passengers can stay in hotels in the city of Almeirim. In the city centre (10 minutes drive), you can find small cosy hotels (pousadas) with a basic set of services.

Conference Halls and Business Centres

Business services (meeting rooms, document printing, fax) are not provided in the terminal. for business meetings or work with documents, it is recommended to use the infrastructure of hotels in the city.

The gastronomic infrastructure of Almeirim Airport (GGF) is extremely restrained, dictated by its status as a small regional hub and low passenger capacity. Passengers accustomed to the variety of food courts in major international hubs should adjust their expectations here: there are no full-service restaurants, chain coffee shops, or lounges in the terminal.

Cafes and Snack Bars

The only option for a snack on the airport premises is a small food point in the format of a "lanchonete" — a traditional Brazilian type of snack bar. It is located in the public zone (landside), before passing pre-flight security. Here you can drink the famous Brazilian coffee ("cafezinho"), and buy refreshing drinks, water, and juices.

Menu and Local Specialities

The assortment of the snack bar is usually limited to ready-made snacks and pastries. Passengers may be offered:

• Salgados: Popular Brazilian savoury pastries with various fillings (chicken, meat, cheese), which are often heated on the spot.
• Pão de queijo: Traditional cheese buns made from cassava flour — an excellent option for a quick introduction to local cuisine.
• Packaged snacks: Crisps, biscuits, chocolate bars.

Dietary Requirements

Options for passengers with special dietary needs within the terminal itself are practically absent.

• Vegetarians can have a snack with cheese buns (pão de queijo) or meat-free pastries.
• Vegans and people following a gluten-free diet will find it extremely difficult to find suitable food, with the exception of bottled water and fruit (if available).
• Halal certified products are not available at the airport.

It is strongly recommended to take care of special meals in advance by bringing necessary food products with you.

Prices and Opening Hours

The price range at the kiosk can be characterised as average or moderate. The cost of water and coffee will be slightly higher than in city supermarkets but remains affordable. The operating schedule of the food point is not rigidly fixed and, as a rule, adapts to the flight schedule: the kiosk opens shortly before check-in begins and closes after the aircraft departs.

Recommendations for Passengers

Considering that the airport is located just 2 kilometres from the centre of Almeirim, the best strategy for those wishing to have a full lunch would be to visit restaurants in the city itself before travelling to the airport. In the centre, you can find establishments with home-style cooking serving fish from the Amazon and local delicacies, at more attractive prices and with greater comfort. It is worth going to the airport only for a quick snack (coffee and a bun) before boarding.

Travelling through a regional Amazonian airport is a unique experience, differing from flights through major hubs. To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible, we have compiled key recommendations taking into account the specifics of Almeirim Airport (GGF) and the features of local aviation.

Optimal Arrival Time

Given the compact size of the terminal and the absence of queues, there is no need to arrive at the airport too early. The optimal arrival time is 1 hour before departure. This is sufficient to check in and drop off luggage without haste. Check-in usually closes 30–40 minutes before departure, and since flights are operated on small aircraft, passenger lists are closed strictly on schedule to calculate the aircraft's weight balance.

Check-in and Seat Selection

• Weighing: Be prepared for the fact that on light aviation flights (for example, on Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft), the weighing procedure applies not only to luggage but sometimes to hand luggage, and in some cases — to the passengers themselves. This is a standard safety procedure for the correct weight distribution on board.
• Seat Selection: On small aircraft, advance online seat selection may not be available. Seating is often determined by the crew immediately before departure based on weight balancing. If you have the option to choose, ask for a window seat: the views of the Amazon River and endless forests during take-off and landing are simply mesmerising.

Hand Luggage and Baggage

In Cessna-type aircraft, the usual overhead bins for hand luggage are absent.

• Dimensions: You are permitted to take only small personal items into the cabin (a handbag, backpack, laptop) that can be placed under the seat in front or at your feet.
• Carry-on Suitcases: Standard carry-on suitcases (Cabin size) will most likely need to be handed over to the luggage compartment at the aircraft steps. We recommend packing fragile items and electronics in a soft bag that you will definitely take with you into the cabin.
• Prohibited Items: Security rules are standard for all of Brazil. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, aerosols, and flammable substances. Liquids over 100 ml are permissible as flights are domestic, but it is better to clarify current airline rules before departure.

Customs Control and Documents

The airport serves exclusively domestic flights, so customs and passport control (as when crossing a border) are absent here. However, for boarding, you will definitely require identification (passport). International tourists are recommended to always have their original passport with them, even on domestic flights.

Tips for Transit Passengers

If Almeirim is just the starting point of your route and you plan a transfer in a major city (Belém or Macapá):

• Allow Extra Time: The weather in the Amazon is changeable, and tropical downpours can shift the departure time of light aviation. It is recommended to leave at least 3–4 hours for a transfer at the next airport so as not to miss a connecting flight in case of a delay in departure from Almeirim.
• Single Ticket: Try to purchase tickets as a single booking. In this case, if the first flight is delayed, the airline is obliged to rebook you on the next available flight free of charge.

Saving Time and Money

• Cash: There are no ATMs at the airport. Be sure to withdraw the necessary amount in Reals in the city before travelling to the airport to pay for a taxi or buy water.
• Food: Prices at the single airport kiosk may be slightly higher than in the city, and the choice is limited. It is better to have a substantial meal in the city before leaving — it will be cheaper and tastier.
• Transport: If you are travelling with a light backpack, use the services of a mototaxi — this is the fastest and cheapest way to get to the terminal.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Since the terminal is very small and does not possess comfortable rest areas or a hotel:

• If the flight is delayed for a long time (more than 2–3 hours), it is wiser to return to the city. The taxi ride will take only 5–10 minutes, and you can wait out the time in the comfort of a hotel or cafe, instead of sitting in the waiting hall.
• Keep airline contacts at hand and monitor the flight status via mobile apps, as information screens in a small airport may update with a delay.