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Altamira Airport

About the Airport

Altamira Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Altamira Airport (ATM) is not just an air harbor, but a true gateway to the heart of the Brazilian Amazon. Located on the banks of the majestic Xingu River, it serves as a key transport hub for travellers seeking to explore the unique landscapes and natural riches of the Trans-Amazonian Highway region. Recently, the airport has come under the management of Aena Brasil, opening a new chapter in its development and modernization, promising passengers more comfortable and modern service.

This airport plays a crucial role in the life of the region, especially following the construction of the "Belo Monte" hydroelectric power plant, the largest in Brazil, which led to a significant increase in passenger traffic. Today, Altamira Airport continues to develop, becoming an increasingly convenient starting point for tourists and specialists working in this dynamic corner of the country.

IATA Code ATM
ICAO Code SBHT
City Altamira
Distance to centre approx. 7 km
Status domestic
Passengers per year approx. 280,000 (2023)
Popular Airlines Azul Brazilian Airlines, Gol Transportes Aéreos, LATAM Airlines
Schedule Online board

Features and Advantages

The main advantage of the airport is its strategic location. It provides access to remote areas of the Amazon, famous for their wildlife and unique culture. For many travellers, this is the only way to quickly and safely reach the national parks and reserves of the Xingu River. With the transition to Aena management at the end of 2023, work began on improving the infrastructure to make your stay here even more comfortable. Despite its modest size, the airport effectively handles the growing flow of passengers, offering the basic amenities necessary to begin an exciting journey through the Amazon.

Contact Information

Below you will find contact information for Altamira Airport (ATM) to help you plan your trip and contact airport representatives.

  • Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport rules can be found on the official Aena Brasil operator website: aenabrasil.com.br/pt/aeroporto/altamira.
  • Information Desk Phone: +55 (93) 3515-4422. Please note that an international dialing code is required for calls from outside Brazil.
  • Airport Address: Rodovia Brigadeiro Eduardo Gomes, Km 6, Altamira, State of Pará (PA), CEP: 68372-970, Brazil.
  • Email: For official inquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the Aena Brasil website, as a direct email for general questions is usually not provided.
  • Social Media: The airport does not have its own official pages. News and updates can be tracked on Aena Brasil corporate channels.
  • Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the airport terminal, please contact the information desk or call the general phone number. For issues regarding lost checked baggage, you should contact your airline directly.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: Assistance to passengers is provided at the information desk in the terminal building. You can also call the general information service number.

How to Get to the Airport

Altamira Airport (ATM) is located very close to the city of Altamira in Brazil, so getting to or from the centre is quite straightforward. The journey usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. The main methods of transportation are outlined below.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and convenient way to reach the city. You can find taxis at the stand outside the arrival terminal exit. For a predictable cost and comfort, you can book a transfer in advance through your hotel or specialized services. A taxi ride is relatively inexpensive, but it is always recommended to confirm the price with the driver before starting the journey, especially if a taximeter is not used.

Car Rental — an excellent option for travellers who wish to move freely around Altamira and explore the surroundings. Representatives of both local and international rental companies can be found at the airport or in the city itself. Having your own transport will give you flexibility in planning routes. The airport has parking where you can leave a car for a short or long term, though it is better to check rates and conditions in advance.

As for public transport, options for trips to the airport may be limited. City bus routes do not always pass directly through the airport. If you are looking for a budget option, it is worth studying local routes and schedules in advance or asking locals for advice. This method may require more time and transfers.

When planning your route, it is also worth considering other airports in the region that might be more convenient depending on your final destination. Among them are Santarém-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport in Santarém or the airport in Tucuruí, offering flights to other directions.

Terminals and Map

Altamira Airport (ATM) is a compact regional aviation hub with a structure designed to be as simple and convenient as possible for passengers. There is one passenger terminal operating here, serving all flights, both departures and arrivals. Thanks to this, you won't have to worry about complicated transfers or searching for the right building — everything is located under one roof.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, you proceed to the security screening area, beyond which lies a small waiting hall for departing passengers. The arrival area is also integrated into the common space: after landing, passengers proceed to the baggage claim hall, which is just a few steps from the terminal exit.

Since there is only one terminal, moving between zones takes minimal time. Check-in and security procedures generally proceed quickly and without hassle, which is a significant advantage of smaller airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure to complete all formalities calmly, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

The main advice for navigating Altamira Airport is not to worry. Its simple and clear layout eliminates the possibility of getting lost. All key areas — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are within direct line of sight or a short walk away. Signs will help you orient yourself, but even without them, you will easily find everything you need.

Airport History

The history of Altamira Airport is inextricably linked with major national projects of Brazil for the development of the Amazon region. The air harbor was officially opened on September 29, 1979, and from its very first days, played a strategically important role. Its initial task was to provide logistics for the construction of the ambitious Trans-Amazonian Highway, which was being paved through the dense jungles.

In the 1970s, the airport in Altamira functioned as a key hub for delivering construction materials, machinery, and thousands of specialists to the remote area. Without this air artery, the realization of such a massive project would have been practically impossible. This stage laid the foundation for the future development not only of the airport but of the entire city.

The airport received a second powerful impulse for development in the 2010s during the construction of one of the world's largest hydroelectric power plants — Belo Monte. To cope with the colossal flow of passengers and cargo, significant reconstruction was carried out: the passenger terminal area was increased, and the runway and navigation equipment were modernized. The airport effectively became the main "gateway" for tens of thousands of builders and engineers.

An interesting fact: Altamira Airport stands as a sort of historical monument to two of the most grandiose and discussed infrastructure projects in Brazil's modern history. Today, it continues to remain a vital transport hub for the entire Xingu River region, serving as a gateway to the unique world of Amazonian nature for both locals and travellers from around the globe. In 2022, management of the airport passed to a new operator, opening a new chapter in its history aimed at further service improvement.

Services and Amenities

Altamira Airport (ATM) is a compact regional aviation hub that provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, the airport is organized to make your journey as convenient as possible.

Before departure, you can have a snack at small cafes and eateries serving light meals, sandwiches, and beverages. There are also several kiosks where you can purchase souvenirs, press, or essential travel items. The selection of establishments and shops corresponds to the terminal's size and focuses on the basic needs of travellers.

For those who need to stay connected, the airport provides access to wireless internet (Wi-Fi). The waiting halls are also equipped with charging stations for mobile devices, so you can recharge your smartphone or laptop before the flight. Specialized VIP lounges may be absent at the airport, but the general waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable.

ATMs for cash withdrawals are installed within the terminal. If you need to exchange currency, it is recommended to do so in advance at banks in the city, as exchange points may be absent or operate on a limited schedule in this small airport. In case of need, there is a medical point at the airport for first aid.

For passengers travelling with small children, a mother and child room is equipped where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. The airport is also accessible for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. For additional assistance, such as boarding support, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options can be found in the city of Altamira, located a few minutes' drive away. Specialized conference rooms or business centres are not provided at the airport, as it primarily serves passenger transport.

Where to Eat

Altamira Airport (ATM) is a small regional airport, so the choice of establishments here corresponds to its size. Dining options are mainly focused on quick snacks, but passengers will not go hungry. Most cafes and snack bars are located in the main public hall, before the security checkpoint (landside).

The basis of the gastronomic offerings consists of traditional Brazilian snack bars, known as lanchonetes. Here you can order sandwiches, pastries (salgados), and of course, the famous cheese bread pão de queijo, which is an ideal travel companion. For a more substantial snack, you can choose coxinhas (chicken croquettes) or esfihas (open pies with fillings). This is the optimal place to eat properly before departure.

After passing security control (airside), the selection becomes significantly more modest. typically, only a small kiosk operates in the departure area, where you can purchase bottled beverages, coffee, and packaged snacks like chips, chocolate, or biscuits. If you plan to eat a substantial meal, it is better to do so before passing through security.

Although there are no restaurants specializing in Amazonian haute cuisine at the airport, you have a chance to experience some authentic flavours of Brazil. Be sure to try fresh juices made from local exotic fruits such as cupuaçu (cupuaçu) or soursop (graviola). This is a great way to refresh yourself and get a vitamin boost before your flight.

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegans, vegetarians, people with gluten intolerance) should be prepared for a limited selection. Specialized menus are unlikely to be available here. Your choice may be limited to fresh fruits, nuts, or juices. If you have special dietary needs, it is recommended to bring food with you from the city of Altamira.

Prices in airport establishments are moderate, but as everywhere, slightly higher than in the city. The opening hours of cafes and kiosks depend directly on the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last plane leaves. Do not count on 24-hour service.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through the airport of Altamira is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, take advantage of these proven tips. Altamira Airport (ATM) is the gateway to an amazing region of Brazil, and proper preparation will help you start your adventure with positive emotions.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, which make up the bulk of the airport's schedule, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to calmly go through all procedures. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. At the counter, you will only need to drop off your luggage. Security checkpoints in regional airports are usually less busy, but it is better to be prepared in advance: remove laptops and liquids from your carry-on.

Seat Selection and Carry-on. When flying from Altamira, a window seat can offer you stunning views of the endless expanses of the Amazon — do not miss this opportunity! If comfort and the ability to stretch your legs are more important to you, choose an aisle seat. Standard carry-on rules apply here as well: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag; no sharp objects or flammable substances.

Connections and Customs. Altamira Airport serves primarily domestic destinations, so international connections usually take place in major hub airports (for example, in Belém or Brasília). If you have a connecting flight, always check if you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Customs control is passed upon first entry into the country, so on domestic flights from Altamira, this procedure is generally absent.

Saving Money and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, book flight tickets in advance and consider travelling with only carry-on luggage. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be inflated, so you can bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to learn about your rights to meals or accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses.

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